A dishwasher saves time, keeps your kitchen tidy, and uses less water than hand washing. If you have decided to buy a new appliance, you need to know how to install it properly. While installing a dishwasher looks like a relatively simple job, you still need to connect water, drainage, and power safely. In many cases, a licensed plumber or electrician is required.
Before You Start
Check your kitchen to make sure you have the right space and connections. Most dishwashers fit under a standard base cabinet and slide into an existing cavity. Measure the width, height, and depth so your new dishwasher will fit without gaps.
Look for:
- A nearby power point
- A water supply line
- A drainage point connected to the kitchen sink
If you are replacing an old dishwasher, the plumbing and electrical setup may already be in place. For a new installation, you may need extra work to create suitable connections.
Turn off the power and shut off the water mains before starting. Lay down protective material on your floors to avoid scratches. Have all the parts ready, including hoses, clamps, and screws.
Step 1: Remove the Old Dishwasher
If you are replacing an existing dishwasher, disconnect it before sliding the new unit in.
- Turn off the power at the wall and at the main switchboard if needed.
- Shut off the water supply under the sink.
- Disconnect the water inlet hose from the tap.
- Disconnect the drain hose from the kitchen sink connection. If the water doesn’t drain away properly, you may have a slow-draining sink.
- Unscrew the mounting brackets that hold the dishwasher in place.
- Carefully slide the old dishwasher out of the cavity.
Keep a towel handy to catch water left inside the hoses.
Step 2: Prepare the Space
Inspect the existing cavity once the old dishwasher is out. Clean the area and check for leaks, water damage, or worn connections. Make sure the cabinetry and flooring are level and strong enough to support the weight of a new appliance.
Check the location of the water supply, drain hoses, and power point. If the setup looks unsafe or out of date, call a licensed plumber or electrician before proceeding. Hidden plumbing problems can often be uncovered at this stage.
Step 3: Position the New Dishwasher
Unpack your new dishwasher and remove all packaging materials. Check that you have all the parts listed in the manual.
Place the dishwasher close to the cavity but leave enough space behind it to connect the hoses and power cord. Attach the inlet and drain hoses to the unit before sliding it in, as this makes the job easier.
Step 4: Connect the Water Supply
The dishwasher needs a steady flow of clean water. Connect the inlet hose to the water supply line under the sink.
- Make sure the rubber washer is inside the hose fitting.
- Hand-tighten the connection, then give it a firm turn with a spanner. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the thread.
- Double-check for leaks once the water is turned on.
If the supply pressure seems weak or too strong, you may want to check out the causes of low or high water pressure.
Some dishwashers connect to hot water, others to cold. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the appliance.
Step 5: Connect the Drain Hose
The drain hose allows dirty water to flow into the sink drain. Most dishwashers come with a flexible hose that connects to a spigot on the sink’s drainage system.
- Secure the hose with a clamp to prevent leaks.
- Create a high loop in the hose under the bench before it connects to the drain line. This stops wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher.
- Ensure the hose is not kinked or twisted.
If your sink drain does not have a suitable spigot, ask a licensed plumber to install one.
Step 6: Connect the Power
Plug the dishwasher into a nearby power point. The outlet must be safe, accessible, and properly earthed. Never use an extension lead.
If a new power point is required or if hardwiring is necessary, this job must be completed by a licensed electrician. Do not attempt to do electrical work yourself.
Step 7: Slide the Dishwasher into Place
Once the hoses and power are connected, carefully slide the dishwasher into the cavity. Make sure the hoses move freely behind the unit and are not trapped or crushed.
Adjust the feet so the dishwasher sits level with your cabinetry. This prevents leaks and ensures the door seals correctly.
Secure the dishwasher with mounting brackets to stop movement during use.
Step 8: Test the Installation
Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks at every connection. Turn the power back on and run a short cycle. Watch for any issues with the water inlet, drainage, or door sealing.
If the dishwasher drains poorly, you may have a clogged dishwasher drain. Otherwise, if it drains properly and no leaks appear, the installation is complete.
Tips for a Safe and Long-Lasting Installation
- Always double-check connections before running a full cycle
- Keep outlet hoses and drain lines free of kinks
- Use a licensed professional for plumbing or electrical work
- Ensure the dishwasher sits level to prevent leaks
- Run the dishwasher empty on its first cycle to flush the system
Call Swan’s Professional Plumbing for Your Dishwasher Installation
Installing a dishwasher involves several steps that need care and attention. If you have existing plumbing and electrical connections, you might feel confident handling a replacement yourself. For new installations or if any electrical or plumbing work is required, call Swan’s Professional Plumbing.
A dishwasher is a valuable appliance in any home. Our team makes sure your unit is installed correctly so it runs efficiently, conserves water, and keeps your kitchen free from dirty dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Across the Perth metropolitan area, Swan’s Professional Plumbing handles dishwasher installations of all types. Our licensed plumbers connect the water supply, drain hoses, and plumbing safely. If a new power point is needed, we work with licensed electricians to complete the job.
Many retailers offer installation when you buy a new dishwasher, but choosing Swan’s gives you access to local plumbers who stand by their work with guarantees and full support after the job is done.
The cost depends on whether you are replacing an existing dishwasher or installing one for the first time.
Replacing an old dishwasher is usually quicker and more affordable, as the plumbing and electrical points are already in place.
A fresh installation often needs new water and drainage connections, and sometimes a new power point. This involves more work and costs a little more.
When you book with Swan’s Professional Plumbing, you get a clear, upfront quote so you know exactly what to expect before the job starts.
While dishwasher installation may look simple, many steps need expert attention. Call Swan’s Professional Plumbing if:
- You need new plumbing connections
- The water supply line looks damaged or outdated
- A power point or hardwiring is required
- You notice leaks during setup
- You are unsure about any step in the process
Our plumbers are licensed, fully insured, and experienced with modern brands and models. Choosing Swan’s means your dishwasher installation is safe, compliant, and backed by our workmanship guarantee.
