What Is Needed to Hook Up a Dishwasher?

Screwdrivers

• Having a selection of both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers on hand is important. The Phillips screwdriver will get the most use, but some manufacturers use flathead screws to tighten clamps or attach custom fronts, and you won't know until you begin. Screwdrivers are used to attach the front panel, secure the dishwasher to the underside of the counter, remove and replace strapping and lock clamps in place. A screwdriver with multiple interchangeable heads of different sizes really comes in handy here.

Wrench

• Because plumbing is involved, you will need a wrench. An adjustable crescent wrench will help you attach hoses and the copper line, and allow you to achieve maximum security in the connections. In a pinch, a heavy set of pliers can do the same job, but it may be more frustrating because they will slip off the connector with every turn. Some installation kits provide a disposable wrench of the correct size -- it will be a flat piece of metal with a hole at one end and a crescent cutout at the other -- check your kit before you begin.

Pliers

• Heavy pliers can help with tightening connectors in areas that are awkward for a wrench, but needle nose pliers are especially helpful when hooking up the electrical box. You'll have to wrap the bare end of copper wire around a terminal, and there's only so much space under the terminal head. Needle nose pliers provide enough force to wrap the stiff wire securely in the tight space provided. A secure wrap is important because once the dishwasher is in place, it's a lot of trouble to pull it back out again if the wiring comes loose and the unit stops getting power.

Ratchet Set

• Depending upon the model, you may need a ratchet and a variety of sockets to attach water valves and drain valves. Again, pliers can work in a pinch, but won't achieve the tightest turn and will be frustrating. It's always best to use the tools designed for the job. Before you begin your installation, check your dishwasher's installation manual to see if a ratchet set is necessary. Home improvement stores sell cheap basic sets for less than $10.

Knife and Level

• A regular razor knife or box cutter is necessary to remove the dishwasher from the packaging, but it also comes in handy to trim extra-long water or drain lines. These lines should only be as long as they need to be, but manufacturers frequently include long lengths of tubing to allow for differences in set-up. A level is of utmost importance -- once the dishwasher is in place, the level helps you adjust the feet for maximum stability. An unlevel dishwasher can be noisy, inefficient and ultimately leak.