How to Install a Dishwasher Vent

Keep your dishes spotless with a properly installed dishwasher.

Dishwashers are a handy, time-saving appliance to have in the kitchen. These appliances work by pulling in water from your home's water supply, mixing it with detergent and then spraying it on your dishes and utensils inside. The dirty dishwater is then pumped out through a drain hose and into the sewer system. Many municipalities require the installation of a piece of equipment called a "dishwasher vent" or "air gap." These dishwasher vents help to prevent the dirty dishwater in the machine from being siphoned back into your municipality's water supply. The process isn't difficult, and installing a dishwasher vent will help ensure that your new dishwasher falls within city and local government codes.

Things You'll Need

• Dishwasher air vent kit
• Measuring tape
• Drill with spade and other bits
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Mark and measure the hole for the dishwasher vent. Most vent kits will come with a template to help you position the vent properly. In most installations, the vent will be located about 6 inches away from the sink and away from the front of the counter.

2. Use the power drill with the spade bit to drill a hole for the air vent. Be careful if this is a laminate countertop, as it may crack. Drill slowly and use even pressure. On a tile covered countertop, you will have to first use a ceramic drill bit to cut through the tiles and then the spade bit when you hit the underlayment. Sand down any sharp edges with the file.

3. Insert the air gap vent up through the underside of the counter until the threads poke through on the top. With your other hand, thread the ribbed screw on and over the top of the air gap vent. If this is a particularly large counter, or you can't reach it with your other hand, have an assistant help you. Tighten the ribbed nut until it is flush with the counter and the air gap is held securely in place.

4. Turn off the power to the circuit where the dishwasher is hooked up, if it has been connected to the electrical grid.

5. Position the dishwasher so that you can easily access and work on the rear of the machine.

6. Attach the drain hose to the outlet on the dishwasher. Secure in place with a compression clamp. Attach the other end to the inlet on the dishwasher vent. Secure this with a compression clamp also.

7. Attach another drain hose to the outlet on the air gap and fasten with a compression clamp. Run this to either the inlet on the sink trap, or the garbage disposal, depending on your installation.

8. Maneuver the dishwasher into its final position. Restore the power to the electrical circuit.

9. Wash a test load. Do not put any dishes in the dishwasher. Check to make sure that there are no leaks from any of the drain hoses. Tighten any clamps, if necessary.

10. Secure the dishwasher in place with the support brackets. Place the cap on top of the air gap.

Tips & Warnings

• It's a good idea to clean the air vent at least once a year to make sure it doesn't become clogged with food and other debris.

• Always use caution when working with water and electricity.

• Some cities have different rules on air vent installations. Be sure to check with your city council or local government before tackling this project.

• These steps are just a guideline. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

References

• Danny Lipford: Installing a Dishwasher
• Bob Vila: Installing a Dishwasher

Resources

• Acme How To: Cleaning the Air Vent