How To Install A Dishwasher Supply Line

How To Install A Dishwasher Supply Line

Installing some appliances can seem like a daunting task if you don’t take care of some important details. For example, the installation of a dishwasher cannot take place unless there is an extension of the hot water supply line to the dishwasher and a connection of the drainpipe to the dishwasher. For an already installed dishwasher, replacement of the supply line is also a tad difficult if you don’t know what you’re up against. 

What is a hot water supply line?

Hot water is needed to wash the dishes. Where does that water come from? It comes from the hot water supply system at your house. This system consists of the heat source, water treatment apparatus, pipelines that transport water, and certain devices that maintain and control the temperature of the water. The main concern for the supply system when dealing with the dishwasher installation is the pipeline that is bringing the hot water to the dishwasher.

Dishwasher’s supply line:

The dishwasher’s supply line does not come with the dishwasher. It needs to be purchased from the plumbing supply store. It has a variety of lengths, varying up to 10 feet. Stainless steel supply lines are considered better than other materials. The supply line can get damaged if you do not take care of the following:

●      Make sure the shut-off valve is within reach.

●      When you don’t want to use the dishwasher for a long period, say a week or more, you must shut the valve off.

●      Regularly check the water supply line for leaks especially at the place where the hose is connected to the water supply shut off valve.

When do you need to change the dishwasher supply line?

As mentioned above, the comfort of using a dishwasher can turn into a disaster if an issue arises with the water supply line. You may have to replace the dishwasher supply line in case any of the following happens:

●      Less or no water reaches the dishwasher -- If there is no water in the dishwasher, then you need to check if the water inlet hose is properly connected and the valve should be in the open position. In case it was not properly connected or in a closed position, then fixing that would solve the problem. If there is less water, then you need to check the leaks and fix them. If nothing works, then you need to change the water supply line.

●      Frozen pipeline -- Another reason for your dishwasher not filling up with water may be that the water supply line could be frozen. It is a pretty serious problem as the supply line may burst at any time. Then you would definitely have to replace the supply line. 

●      Water under the dishwasher -- if the water starts filling up under the dishwasher, you need to check the water supply, check every connection to tighten and secure it. If the problem persists, then the cause may be a hole in the pipeline that should be fixed immediately as it may result in extensive water damage.

Installing a dishwasher supply line:

The whole thing can be a tedious process so you need to have all the tools and equipment at hand before you start connecting the supply line and the drainpipe to the dishwasher.

Tools and equipment required:

You will need the following tools to install a dishwasher supply line, along with the electric connections:

●      A power drill with a hole saw attachment

●      Screwdriver

●      Wrench

●      Pliers

●      Electrical tape

●      Teflon tape

●      Supply and drain tubes

●      T-fittings

●      Compression fittings

●      Wire nuts

●      Tube cutter

Precautions you need to take before the installation process:

You need to be very careful when installing the dishwasher as you will be attaching it with the water supply line and you may need to work with the electrical wires. You could end up flooding your house or get an electric shock if you do not take the following precautions:

●      Make sure you shut the water supply to the sink before you start the work.

●      Ensure that the power is off at the fuse box or the circuit breaker while you do any electrical work as it can have serious repercussions that may result in serious injuries even death.

Steps for installing a dishwasher supply line:

You can easily install the dishwasher supply line by following the steps given below.

1. Cutting the hole in the cabinet wall:

If you are installing the dishwasher for the first time, you will need to cut a hole in the cabinet wall. After you have ensured that the water supply is shut, you can start by drilling a hole in the cabinet wall separating the dishwasher compartment and the area under the sink. You should use a power drill to cut a round hole in the cabinet wall (of about 3-inches).

2. Attaching the drain line to the dishwasher:

Attach the drain line connection of the dishwasher to the main drain line pipe using hose clamps. You must secure the hose clamps by crimping them around the hose using pliers. With a tube cutter, cut the drainpipe under the sink. Then, attach a T-fitting to the drainpipe of the dishwasher. The T-fitting has a horizontal and a vertical part. The vertical part connects the dishwasher line to the drain pipe and the horizontal part connects the drain line.

3. Placing the dishwasher:

Now, the dishwasher needs to be placed under the countertop and you can push and slide it in place. After sliding the dishwasher under the sink, you need to level it with the countertop by balancing the height of the legs using a wrench. When you have adjusted it according to your requirement, secure it to the countertop with screws. Don’t forget to thread the hose through the hole in the cabinet wall. 

4. Attaching the hot water supply line:

To attach the water supply line to the hot water input valve in the dishwasher, you need compression fittings. Tighten the compression fittings using a wrench. You will need a tube cutter to cut the water supply line, after which you will install a fitting and connect it to the dishwasher’s water supply. Then, connect the dishwasher’s supply line to the hot water supply under the sink.

5. Turning on the water supply and switching on the power at the breaker:

After you are done connecting all the parts, turn on the water supply. Then connect the dishwasher’s drain line to the plumbing system. Switch the power on at the breaker and your dishwasher is ready for use. You have installed your dishwasher’s supply line. All that remains is to test if everything is in working order.

6. Testing the supply line:

After successfully installing the dishwasher or replacing the supply line, check the supply line and the drain line for any leakages or problems. Check if the dishwasher gets filled up with water easily and the drain line is also working properly. In case there is some issue, check all the connections again. If the problem still persists, contact a professional plumber to check things out. 

If you follow the 6 steps properly and take the necessary precautions, you will have no trouble at all in installing your dishwasher or replacing the supply line. I hope these easy steps will make your work a breeze and you will be using your dishwasher in no time.

Guest Contributor: Aisha S