How to Install Dishwasher in Islands
Dishwashers are a necessity in the modern kitchen. In most cases, the dishwasher is located next to the sink, which is usually in a cabinet against a wall with a window. This setup allows for the easiest installation. Installing a dishwasher in an island cabinet, however, presents a challenge because the plumbing and electricity enters the cabinet from the floor. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Wire strippers
- Wire nuts
- Electrical tape
- Extra wire (if needed)
- Junction box (if needed)
- Variable speed drill
- 1-inch paddle bit
- Phillips-head screw tip
- "Tee" water connection
Instructions
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1
Measure the width of the front of the dishwasher. In most cases, a dishwasher requires a 24¼-inch opening in the frame. It has adjustable legs on the bottom for leveling and helping secure it to the underside of the front of the countertop.
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2
Find the breaker that allows electricity to flow to the dishwasher, and turn it to the "off" position. Locate the electrical wiring inside the island cabinet. If the wires are not long enough to reach the connection on the front of the dishwasher, you will need to extend them. Use wire nuts and a junction box. The next step explains this process. If the wires in your island are long enough, skip to step 4.
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3
Strip the insulation from the ends of the wires for a good connection. Place the existing wires and the extension in a junction box. The wires are color-coded, so secure white to white and so on. Hold the end of the white wires parallel with the bare wires next to each other. Slip the wires into a wire nut, and twist the nut as if tightening a bolt. Next, wrap the connection in electrical tape. Repeat this for each wire, and then secure the cover on the junction box.
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4
Locate the electrical connection on the front of the dishwasher. The wires are color coded, so connection is simplified. Be certain enough bare wire is exposed to make a good connection. Place the white wires parallel to each other with the bare wire on the same end. Slip the wires into a wire nut and twist it in a clockwise direction to get a solid connection. Wrap the connection in electrical tape. Repeat this for the remaining wires.
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5
Locate the water line connection on the dishwasher. Read the instruction manual that came with the dishwasher for proper installation of the water and drain line. It may be necessary to drill holes for the water and drain line connections. The drain line runs from the dishwasher to a special drain line in the sink plumbing so you can use a hose clamp to secure it. If the dishwasher comes with an air inlet valve, it is installed in the top of the sink or countertop. The drain line will connect to it and go from it to the sink drain.
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6
Hook the water supply line from the dishwasher to the hot water line of the sink. If this is a new installation, the easiest way to accomplish this is with a tee connection. Be certain the tee is made for the type of water line to the sink. To install it, turn the water supply valve off. Cut the line that runs between the valve and the sink, install the tee, and secure the water line to the dishwasher to the tee according to manufacturer's instructions. Turn the water on and check for leaks before going to the last step.
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7
Slip the dishwasher into the island cabinet and check the distance between the top of the dishwasher and the bottom side of the countertop. Locate the adjustment at the legs under the dishwasher. Turn them in the direction needed to raise the front of the dishwasher. When it is close enough, use the installation screws that came with the dishwasher to secure it to the countertop.
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Tips & Warnings
Clean up water immediately to prevent floor or cabinet damage. Read the owner's manual thoroughly to be certain there are no steps to be taken before operating the dishwasher.
Do not work with live electricity. Check the wires with a voltmeter if one is available. Do not leave power tools unattended in the presence of children.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Michael Straessle
