Dishwasher Installation Height

Installation Width

• The standard size of a dishwasher is 24 inches wide, according to Consumer Reports. This means that the opening in the cabinets for a built-in dishwasher should be 24 inches for a perfect fit. Drawer models, which pull out like cabinet drawers, come in different sizes and can be customized. These are much more expensive than standard dishwashers and do not clean as effectively.

Installation Height

• Most dishwashers have adjustable legs so that you can adjust their height. Kitchen countertops used for food preparation are usually 36 inches from the floor. Since most dishwashers are installed under these work surfaces, the installation height will be around 34 inches. This can vary depending on the thickness of the countertop and the specific brand and model of dishwasher. To be certain of a good fit, choose your dishwasher and consult the owner's manual to find out how high the installation space should be before you install your cabinets.

Location Considerations

• Dishwashers should not be installed more than 10 feet from the sink and less than five feet is best. This is recommended because dishwashers and sinks share plumbing fixtures and it is must easier to move the dirty dishes from the sink to the dishwasher when the dishwasher is nearby. Consider the door of the dishwasher as well when planning where to install the appliance. You don't want the door to block traffic through the kitchen when it is open.

Other Considerations

• Cabinet panels are sometimes used to hide the front of a dishwasher, which may affect the installation height. In addition, some homeowners like to surround the dishwasher with insulation, which quiets the operation of the appliance. If so, you will need to allow for that extra bit of space when calculating the height and width installation of your dishwasher.