Last Updated on March 15, 2022 by Kravelv
There is a huge misconception that dishwashers use more energy and water compared to washing dishes by hand. But studies show that hand scrubbing uses 3.5 times more water than an automatic dishwasher.
If you have invested in a new dishwasher for the first time, you would have realized by now that installing it is not as easy as using it. To make your job easier, there are many licensed plumbers and experts who can help with dishwasher install and maintenance.
Here are some questions to ask about dishwasher installation.
How to Measure The Dishwasher Space?
When installing or replacing a dishwasher, you have to make sure that the fit is right. Measure the installation area from the floor to the bottom of the countertop. If you are redoing or replacing your flooring, there are chances you may face issues in the measurements while you are trying to install the dishwasher.
In case the dishwasher does not have a handle on the front, check what is around the dishwasher space. Only when you check and install accordingly will you not have any issues using the handles without it getting in the way of the drawers on either side of the dishwasher.
If you are installing a new island in the kitchen, ensure enough space between the island and the dishwasher when its door is open. Less space can give a cramped feeling, and you may not be able to move around freely when the dishwasher’s door is open.
You can also call a plumbing service near you to help with the dishwasher install and measurements.
How to Bring In the Water Supply?
Have you had a dishwasher in your kitchen before, or is this the first time? If this is the first time you are about to install a whole new machine in your kitchen, think about where you want to place the dishwasher.
The dishwashers usually require hot water, so it is ideal for keeping it somewhere near the sink. You should consider installing the dishwasher close to the wall where the sink is located. A new valve will connect the hot water supply to the dishwasher.
You have to drill on the sink cabinet’s sidewalls to connect the hose to supply hot water to the dishwasher. While choosing the hose material, if you want a high-quality one that will last longer, you can go for stainless steel long braided wire hoses.
If you have hired a plumbing service from your area, they will give you suggestions based on the local climatic conditions and their effect on the materials’ wear and tear.
Should You Install A New Garbage Disposer?
If you are replacing an old dishwasher with a new one, then the garbage disposer will be as old as your dishwasher. So it is a good idea to replace the disposer when you are installing a new dishwasher.
Check the space beneath the sink to determine how much area is available to accommodate the garbage disposer. According to space, you can decide whether to invest in a bigger disposer or get a smaller one which comes with a capacity to break down lesser food.
What Type Of Power Supply Does It Require?
It will be easier to hook it up to the power supply if you replace a dishwasher; you will just have to hardwire and replace a few cords. But, in case you are going to install a completely new one for the first time, then it is time you reach out to plumbing services near you for help with the dishwasher install.
Most of the standard electrical codes require separate circuits for garbage disposers and dishwashers. You have to use 12-gauge wires to run duplex plugs protected by 20-amp circuit breakers.
Again, it is good to leave the electricity part to the professionals to ensure safety as it requires many safety codes and standards to keep up to, which cannot be taken lightly.
What Measures To Take For Maintenance?
Once the installation is complete and you have started to use the dishwasher, the machine’s longevity and life depends on how you use and maintain it. There are many high-quality dishwasher cleaners in the market that you can get.
Use it twice or thrice a year to clean both the dishwasher and the garbage disposer. It will help keep it in shape for a long time and prevent odors too.
If you think you are proficient in home improvement, you can take up the installation job yourself. But those of you who think you will need the assistance of pros with the installation, reach out to a plumbing service near you to help you. A dishwasher is a delicate investment, so it will be worth hiring the pros to handle it.
