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Do you want to install a freestanding dishwasher in your home in Australia? This is a simple process, but it requires some skills to do it successfully. You also need to set aside time to plan and gather all the materials necessary for the job.
It’s also essential to find out the measurement of the area you want the dishwasher installed. You should find the perfect location in your house and measure the width and height requirements.
Additionally, select an area with enough light for visibility as you connect the hoses and make the necessary electrical connections. You should also remove all the old cabinets if need be before you can proceed with the installation. Continue reading the article for more guidelines on installing a freestanding dishwasher in your home.
Why Install A Freestanding Dishwasher?
Here are some significant benefits of installing a freestanding dishwasher in your smart home in Australia.
Moving this appliance is relatively easy
One of the top benefits of a freestanding dishwasher is that you can easily move it around. Since it’s not a permanent installation, it’s a great option if you plan to rearrange your kitchen in the future. It has features similar to built-in models; however, it is an excellent option if your kitchen doesn’t have installed electrical or plumbing connections.
More affordable
Freestanding dishwashers are more affordable than their built-in counterparts. They don’t require special costly installation. Therefore, you can install it independently without hiring an expert to help in the process. The dishwashers connect to your kitchen faucet and drain directly to your kitchen sink.
Easier to repair
A freestanding dishwasher is easy to diagnose and repair in case of a problem. It is easy to dismantle and inspect the part that might be having an issue compared to the built-in models. It also costs less to repair than the built-in counterparts.
Perfect for small spaces
A freestanding dishwasher is an excellent option if you have limited space in your kitchen. Therefore, if you barely have room for other models, you can install this option. Moreover, you can also use it in your office because it takes up a small space.
Steps Taken To Install A Freestanding Dishwasher
Step One: Measure the space
You should start by checking the measurements of the space you intend to install the dishwasher and compare it to the size of the dishwasher. You could also take the dimensions of your current unit, which includes the width of its opening and height, to use as a reference. Ensure there is enough space to fit your new kitchen appliance into your space.
Before you purchase the freestanding dishwasher, consider how wide, deep and tall it is. You can view the measurements on the product’s website or check its label. Note that each dishwasher model might have a different size, so it’s good to ask an expert if you aren’t sure about the right size for you.
Step Two: Turn off the water and power
Turn off the main power at the breaker and then the water supply. You can find the shutoff under the kitchen sink or turn off the water from the main water supply. If you have an old dishwasher, you also need to disconnect all the hoses so that you can connect them to the new one. However, you don’t have to install them at the moment.
Step Three: Disconnect and remove the old dishwasher
Now remove the old dishwasher from its power source. In most cases, there is a cable connecting to an outlet. You can use a screwdriver to do the disconnection. You should then disconnect the old dishwasher from the water supply pipe and reconnect it to the new one with a screwdriver.
Next, remove all the remaining hoses from the existing dishwasher and keep them aside to use with the new one. This way, you do not have to waste time installing new hoses into the new dishwasher.
Step Four: Clean and inspect the drain hose
The next step is to ensure that you clean up any grime or dirt that the old kitchen appliance might leave behind in the installation space. This is necessary to ensure that the new kitchen appliance is installed in a clean area.
Additionally, check that there are no leaks in the fittings on both sides of your sink. You should look for cracks in the hose that could hinder adequate water flow. It’s also good to check how deep your drain hose can go into the drainage pipe.
If it is too short, there is a risk of mildew or mould build-up over time, affecting its functioning. Moreover, it is vital to check the hose length because if something goes wrong later, it will be easier to access a long drain hose for repairs. A long drain hose makes it possible to repair the floor without ripping out or breaking walls.
Step Five: Install the front recess panel
After you have installed and plugged in your freestanding dishwasher, it is time to add the finishing touches. Proceed to install the front recess panel held by three screws in the back of the appliance door.
You can insert the screws using a screwdriver or drill. Once the front recess panel is in place, attach the handle with two screws at the end of its handle assembly. You should also insert a screw on the top of the door frame.
Next, install gaskets on both sides of the door and attach the handles on both sides with two screws per handle. Then, line up the panel alongside the interior wall surface and ensure it is well seated in the correct position. Ensure you don’t bend any wires or damage anything as you install it.
Step Six: Connect the water lines and wiring harness
Now connect the appliance’s electrical cord to an outlet. Then, connect the water pipes to your dishwasher. You need to connect and secure a freestanding dishwasher before installing it.
The kind of connections varies depending on the model and brand of your freestanding dishwasher. You could use twist clamps or quick connectors to attach the water pipes. After that, connect any extra hoses by following the guidelines in the user manual. Ensure that the hoses are fastened securely, so they don’t get loose during operations and cause damage to your home.
Step Seven: Level and install the new freestanding dishwasher
Once your appliance is in the proper position, ensure it is level. This ensures the door seals correctly and water flows into the sink effectively. To check if the dishwasher is level, place a straightedge on top of all the corners and sides to check across each individually.
If a corner is shifted by less than an eighth inch (0.3cm), you can ignore it because this is a small margin that cannot affect the functioning of your standing dishwasher. If you notice that the appliance isn’t level and it’s too high or too low, adjust the height on your cabinet or countertop.
Once you are satisfied that the dishwasher is level, you proceed to attach all the hoses per the manufacturer’s guidelines. Then, turn the power on at the circuit breaker or fuse box nearest your appliance.
Step Eight: Mount the drain lines and water supply
Your freestanding dishwasher should be connected to a drain line and water supply. You can connect it to the old water supply line or have a new one if required. Turn off the main supply valve before you connect the appliance to the water line.
If there is an existing drain connection, you should remove any clamp that holds it in place and reconnect the clamp. If you want to install a new drain connection, mount another section of PVC pipe beside the existing pipes.
Need Help Installing Your Freestanding Dishwasher?
Installing a freestanding dishwasher might prove to be tricky if you don’t have the right skills. Therefore, to get the best results, it’s advisable to work with the best plumbers in your area. Professional plumbers understand the working mechanism of all dishwashers and how to install a dishwasher effectively.
They also have state-of-the-art tools to do the dishwasher installation effectively and fast. Moreover, they can also help with all your other plumbing needs, including hot water system installation to ensure you have hot water in your home.
