Homeowners who are struggling with faulty dishwashers, or who simply want to upgrade their appliances, should consider replacing their dishwashers themselves. The task may seem daunting, but you can complete it as part of a do-it-yourself project if you properly prepare and learn how to maintain your new system. Read how to replace a dishwasher in our step-by-step guide below, and watch the video above for tips from This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey.
Understanding Dishwasher Replacement
You must take the time to understand the replacement process before you dive in. Replacing a dishwasher typically requires disconnecting the old unit from water, electrical, and drain lines, removing it from its space, and then reversing the process with the new unit. You may need to modify cabinetry or plumbing in certain cases.
When to Replace Your Dishwasher
Here are some signs it might be time for a replacement:
- Repairs are becoming frequent and costly.
- Strange noises occur during operation.
- The dishes aren’t clean after a wash.
- There are visible cracks or damage to the tub.
- Your dishwasher is more than 10 years old.
- Your energy bills have increased significantly.
Older dishwashers are less energy efficient than modern models, and upgrading can reduce long-term utility costs. Today’s dishwashers usually include advanced features that make the machine more efficient and convenient.
Preparation Steps
Prepare for installation by following the steps below.
- Measure your current dishwasher and the cabinet opening to make sure the new unit will fit.
- Purchase a new dishwasher that matches your measurements and requirements.
- Gather all necessary tools and materials.
- Turn off the power to the dishwasher at the main electrical panel.
- Shut off the water supply to the dishwasher.
- Protect your kitchen floor with a drop cloth or cardboard to avoid scratches and damage.
Tools and Materials Needed for Dishwasher Replacement
Gather the tools below before you begin the replacement process to make removal and installation much easier.
- 1-inch spade bit
- 1 1/4-inch hole saw bit
- 2-inch hole saw bit
- Adjustable wrench
- Close-quarters tubing cutter
- Drill/driver
- Pliers
- Protective eyewear
- Safety gloves
- Screwdriver
- Shallow pan or bucket
- Teflon tape
- Torpedo level
- Tube bending springs
- Wire stripper
Removing the Old Dishwasher
The first step in replacing your dishwasher is to remove the old unit. Follow the steps below.
Disconnecting Utilities
- Remove the access panel from the lower front of the dishwasher.
- Disconnect the electrical wiring by removing the wire nuts and separating the connections.
- Disconnect the copper water-supply line from the dishwasher. Drain excess water into a shallow pan.
- Disconnect the drain line by loosening the clamp and pulling it off the dishwasher.
Removing the Dishwasher
- Open the dishwasher and remove the screws that hold it to the underside of the counter.
- Carefully slide out the old dishwasher, and be careful not to damage the floor and surrounding cabinetry.
- Clean up any remaining water in the drain lines.
Sliding out the dishwasher might require some wiggling. If the unit seems stuck, check for any errant screws or brackets that might be holding it in place.
Installing the New Dishwasher
Once you’ve removed the old dishwasher, you can install the new unit. This process involves preparing the space, connecting utilities, and securing the new dishwasher in place.
Preparing the Space
- Clean the area that hosted the old dishwasher.
- Drill a 1-inch hole through the cabinet to feed the soft copper tubing for the water supply.
- Make sure the electrical and plumbing connections are accessible and in good condition.
Connecting Utilities
- Feed the soft copper tubing through the hole into the sink cabinet.
- Use an adjustable wrench to attach the copper tubing to the hot water shut-off valve inside the sink cabinet. Apply Teflon tape to threaded connections to prevent leaks.
- Disconnect the old drain line from the garbage disposer and attach the new drain hose to the disposer using a stainless-steel hose clamp.
- Secure the electrical wiring with twist-on wire connectors. Match wire colors for proper connections.
Securing the New Dishwasher
- Tape the hot-water line and electrical cable to the floor to keep them out of the way.
- Carefully slide the new dishwasher into place, and make sure not to kink or bend any lines.
- Use a tubing bender to shape the copper line.
- Cut the tubing to the appropriate length and attach it to the dishwasher using a compression fitting.
- Secure the electrical wiring with twist-on wire connectors.
- Connect the new drain hose to the side of the garbage disposer using a stainless-steel hose clamp.
- Screw the dishwasher to the underside of the countertop to secure it in place.
- Level the dishwasher using the adjustable feet so that it remains stable and operates quietly.
Troubleshooting Common Dishwasher Issues
You may encounter some issues with your dishwasher even if you install it carefully. Below are some common problems and corresponding solutions:
- Leaks: Check all connections and tighten as necessary. Use plumber’s tape on threaded connections to prevent leaks.
- Noisy operation: Level the dishwasher using the adjustable feet. Make sure you’ve securely mounted the appliance to minimize vibration.
- Poor drainage: Make sure you’ve properly installed the drain hose with a high loop to prevent backflow. Check for clogs in the drain hose or garbage disposer.
Maintenance Tips for Your New Dishwasher
Follow the maintenance tips below to keep your new dishwasher running smoothly.
- Avoid overloading the dishwasher so the appliance can efficiently clean all the dishes.
- Clean the filter regularly to prevent clogs and maintain water flow.
- Clean the spray arms periodically to remove any clogs that might affect water distribution.
- Inspect the door gasket for signs of wear and replace it if necessary to prevent leaks.
- Run hot water in the sink before starting the dishwasher so that the dishwasher starts its cycle with hot water. This will lead to more successful cleaning.
- Use rinse aid to improve drying performance and reduce water spots on dishes.
