How to Install a Dishwasher: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing a dishwasher is a job many competent DIYers can tackle, though the electrical connection in Australia requires a licensed electrician. Here's a comprehensive step-by-step guide to dishwasher installation, covering what you can do yourself and what requires a tradesperson.
What You'll Need
- The new dishwasher
- Adjustable wrench and pliers
- Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
- Teflon tape (plumber's tape)
- Bucket and towels
- Drill and drill bits (if needed for securing to cabinetry)
- Water supply hose (usually supplied with dishwasher)
- Drain hose (usually supplied)
- Water supply valve (usually already under the sink)
What Requires a Licensed Tradesperson?
Electrical connection: In Australia, the final electrical connection — wiring the dishwasher to a power outlet or hardwiring it — must be done by a licensed electrician. This is a legal requirement. Most dishwashers have a standard 10A plug, so if there's already a suitable power outlet in the under-sink cabinet, you can plug it in yourself; if one needs to be installed, that's a job for an electrician.
New plumbing rough-in: If there's no existing water supply valve or drain connection under the sink for a dishwasher, a licensed plumber must install them. If connections already exist from a previous dishwasher, you can connect to them yourself.
Step 1: Prepare the Space
Measure the opening where the dishwasher will go. Standard dishwashers are 60cm wide x 60cm deep x 85cm tall (adjustable legs). Ensure there's a water supply valve, a drain connection and a power outlet within reach. Remove any items from the under-sink cabinet to give you clear working space.
Step 2: Connect the Water Supply Hose
Turn off the water supply valve under the sink. Connect the water inlet hose to the valve — wrap the thread with Teflon tape first to prevent leaks. Hand-tighten, then give a half-turn with a wrench. Connect the other end of the hose to the dishwasher's inlet port (at the rear, near the base). Don't overtighten.
Step 3: Connect the Drain Hose
The drain hose connects from the dishwasher's drain pump (at the rear or base) to either the sink drain or a dishwasher drain port on the sink's waste trap. If connecting to the sink waste, you'll need a dishwasher waste connector — available from hardware stores. Loop the drain hose high under the sink (this creates a 'high loop' that prevents back-siphoning of drain water into the dishwasher) before connecting to the waste. Secure the hose with a hose clamp.
Step 4: Slide the Dishwasher Into Position
Carefully slide the dishwasher into the cabinet opening, feeding the hoses through or under the cabinet as you go. Make sure no hoses are pinched or kinked. Adjust the levelling legs so the machine is level (use a spirit level across the top of the door) — this is important for door alignment and wash performance.
Step 5: Secure the Dishwasher
Most dishwashers secure to the underside of the bench top via mounting brackets (included). Drill pilot holes and screw the brackets in. This prevents the machine tipping forward when the door is opened.
Step 6: Check Connections, Then Test
Turn the water supply valve back on. Check all connections for leaks. Connect the power (plug in if there's an accessible outlet). Run the dishwasher on a short cycle while watching for leaks under the machine and at the drain connection. Check the drain by ensuring water leaves after the cycle.
Need Help?
Oceania Appliances offers delivery and installation across Sydney. If you'd prefer professional installation, we can arrange it. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park, call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au.