Indeed, an installed dishwasher will save your time and make life easier. However, everything must be arranged appropriately for perfect installation to take place. These are some key steps in case you have either opted for self-installation or are preparing for professional installation. This dishwasher installation checklist will comprehensively help you prepare your kitchen for the successful installation of this appliance and enable you to evade some of the common pitfalls that may raise their heads.

1. Measure the Space

Before buying any dishwasher, the area in which it will go into should be measured. While most dishwashers are standard widths—usually 24 inches—it’s well worth double-checking that the space is sufficient in terms of height, width, and depth. Be sure to include any extra room required for opening/closing of the door.

  • Tip: If you’re replacing an old dishwasher, measure the current unit and the surrounding cabinetry to ensure a proper fit.

2. Check Water and Electrical Connections

The key to a successful dishwasher installation is proper water and electrical connections to begin with.

  • Water Supply: Your dishwasher needs a supply of hot water. Check the nearest water line to see if it is accessible. You’ll need a separate water valve and supply line, as generally you’d find them in specific locations of the existing plumbing.
  • Electrical Outlet: See if there is an appropriate electrical outlet nearby. Most dishwashers use a 120V grounded outlet. Compatibility is very important.

If your current connections aren’t up to specification, you will have to consult a plumber or electrician before attempting the installation.

3. Prepare the Tools You Will Need

Having the right tools on hand will make the installation process so much easier should you be doing it yourself. Here’s a basic list of what you might need for a straightforward installation:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Screwdrivers, Phillips and flathead
  • Plumber’s tape
  • Wire strippers
  • Drill, to secure the dishwasher in place

Having these on hand will save you from having to stop and search around the shop while you’re trying to install it smoothly.

4. Allow for Drainage

Dishwashers will need suitable drainage to prevent a build-up of water. Most homes will have an attachment for dishwasher drainage, usually under the sink, but you’ll want to check this is right for your configuration.

  • Tip: Keep the drain hose secure and properly attached to the device for no leakage. It’s a good idea, as well, to create a high loop in the drain hose so that backflow will be avoided.

5. Test Before Securing

Before you will have this dishwasher secured in its proper place, you need to test-run it. In this way, you can verify if all the connections—water, drainage, and electrical—function right.

  • Check the dishwasher for leaks and proper fill and drain before completing the installation.

Conclusion: Ease into Dishwasher Convenience

This dishwasher installation checklist will surely help any DIYer or person preparing for a professional setup with a seamless and successful process. Measuring your space, checking the connections, and scrounging up the right tools will make all the difference in ensuring the new appliance works flawlessly from day one.

For more home improvement or installation project tips, be sure to visit A Nation of Moms.