How to Install a Dishwasher With a Drain Vent
Dishwashers are a handy time-saving device in the kitchen, especially after a big dinner party. These machines work by pulling in water from your home's water supply, mixing it with detergent and then spraying it over your dirty dishes to remove food and stains. The dirty water is then pumped out from the dishwasher and into your home's sewer system. Some municipalities require the installation of a dishwasher drain vent (also called an air gap) to prevent this dirty dishwasher from being siphoned back into the municipal water supply. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Dishwasher
- Drain vent kit
- Saw
- Power drill (and bits)
- Electrical wire
- Water supply hose
- Plumber's tape
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Electrical tape
Instructions
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1
Prepare the space for the dishwasher. In order to work properly, a dishwasher needs three connections: sewer, water supply and electricity. That makes a location next to the kitchen sink ideal for a dishwasher. Measure the counter for the dishwasher and cut out enough space for it to fit beneath with the saw, if necessary.
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2
Prepare the space for the drain vent. Many manufacturers will include a template that you can lay over the countertop to figure out where exactly to place the drain vent. Drill out a hole for the drain vent with a power drill and spade bit. On a ceramic or granite counter top, you will have to use special stone cutting drill bits in order to make the hole. Sand down any rough edges with the file.
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3
Insert the drain vent assembly from beneath and up through the countertop. With your other hand, thread the ribbed nut around the drain vent assembly to secure it to the countertop.
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4
Run a circuit from the main panel to the dishwasher. These appliances use a lot of electricity, so they need their own dedicated circuit. If you do not already have a circuit prepared, you will have to have one set up. Unless you are a certified electrician, you will need a professional to do this step. Turn off the power to the circuit at the breaker box once this is installed.
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5
Position the dishwasher near where it will be installed. Leave room at the back of the appliance to give yourself some working space when hooking up the utility connections.
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6
Connect the water supply. Wrap the inlet on the dishwasher with plumber's tape, then connect the water supply hose. Do this hand tight at first, then an additional turn with the wrench.
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7
Connect the electricity. Wire the three leads (black, white and ground) to the terminals on the dishwasher. Use electrical tape to cover any exposed wiring.
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8
Run a drain hose from the outlet on the dishwasher to the inlet on the drain vent. Secure in place with compression clamps. Connect another hose from the outlet on the drain vent to the sewer termination point, which could either be the sink trap or the garbage disposal, depending on your installation.
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9
Restore the power to the electrical circuit. Turn on the water. Run a test wash in the dishwasher with no dishes inside. Check the water supply and drain hoses for leaks. Tighten if necessary.
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10
Move the dishwasher to its final location. Secure in place with the support brackets. Place the cap on top of the drain vent.
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Tips & Warnings
The above steps are just a guideline. Always follow manufacturer's instructions.
Be sure to check with your municipality regarding drain vent requirements.
Use caution when working with water and electricity.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Dishes image by Towards Ithaca from Fotolia.com
