How to Hook Up a Dishwasher Where There is No Existing Dishwasher

If you have just moved into a new apartment or house, there is the possibility that there isn't a dishwasher installed in the home. You can install a dishwasher anywhere in your kitchen area, provided there is space for the unit and access to a water line. People tend to think dishwasher installation can only be completed by a professional, but you can do it yourself in an afternoon with the right instruction and tools.

Measuring tape
Saw
Dishwasher install kit (if necessary)
Phillips screwdriver
Power drill

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the water line in your kitchen (usually under the sink) and turn the shutoff valve to cut off the water supply.
- 2
  Place the dishwasher in the area where you wish to install it. In many kitchens there are cut-out areas under counters that can accommodate dishwashers. There are also spaces between counters that you could utilize. Ensure you have access to the connectors and that the area is close to a power outlet. If the area between cabinets or counters is too small for the dishwasher, you can measure the dimensions of the unit and cut the fixture to size with a saw.
- 3
  Pop the bottom access panel off the front of your dishwasher. This will expose the connections for the water-in line, the pump tube and the electrical wiring.
- 4
  Slide the two connections (drain/pump tube, copper water line) from the dishwasher space through the openings on the bottom of the dishwasher. Drill holes through the cabinet in order to run the lines, if necessary.
- 5
  Run the dishwasher power cable through the cabinet opening and slide the dishwasher into the opening. Run the power cable to the nearest power outlet.
- 6
  Connect the copper water line to the port on the front of the dishwasher. This port will be marked and identified in the user manual for your particular model of dishwasher. Tighten the connection with a wrench.
- 7
  Insert the pump/drain tube into the connector on the front of the dishwasher. Use the metal spring clamp on the pump to secure the pump to the connector. The remaining end of the pump/drain tube connects to the sink's drainpipe or garbage disposal. If there isn't a drain/pump tube already installed under your sink, one will come in a dishwasher install kit.
- 8
  Plug the wiring harness into the electrical port on the front of the dishwasher.
- 9
  Replace the front panel and screws. If the dishwasher is sliding between or under cabinets and countertops, it will likely come with mounting brackets and screws. Attach the mounting brackets to the top corners of the dishwasher and insert the screws into the screw holes on the mounting bracket. Secure the screws and the dishwasher will be mounted to the cabinets.

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