You can determine how deep your dishwasher can fit within your cabinet opening by measuring the depth from the back wall toward the front of your cabinets. When narrowing down your dishwasher purchase, be sure to mind any protruding handles (namely bar handles), as these should extend beyond the front of your cabinets.
Measuring for a Freestanding Dishwasher
A freestanding dishwasher doesn't need to fit under your existing cabinets, so will fit in to your kitchen with ease. They typically stand a little taller than an integrated appliance, so the top of the machine will sit in line with your surfaces.
It's true, most dishwashers are the same size, and the standard size of a dishwasher is 24 inches wide by 35 inches high by 24 inches deep. But unless you measure your dishwasher's existing space, also called a rough opening, you'll have no idea whether or not your designated spot will fit that size.
Using a tape measure, start at the floor and measure to the bottom of the counter over the space. Write this measurement down. Repeat the process for the middle of the cabinet opening and the right side of the cabinet. Tip: Most dishwashers have adjustable legs to bring the appliance level with countertops.
Make sure there is at least 27 inches of open space in front of the dishwasher for loading and unloading.
There are two fairly easy ways to fill a gap between the dishwasher and countertop. They are to: Raise the dishwasher's adjustable feet. Elevate the dishwasher with shims, and then cover with a toe plate if necessary.
While your dishwasher does not have to be flush with the cabinets and countertops, there are benefits to the parallel installation. A flushed dishwasher makes it easier to maneuver through your kitchen, creates a cohesive look within the space, and prevents unanticipated plumbing challenges.
Replacing an existing dishwasher is a relatively easy job (provided you've measured up correctly and your new dishwasher fits in the space under your bench). All the infrastructure you need – power, water, drainage and space – are already in place.
The vast majority of undercounter dishwashers measure approximately 24 inches in width, 24 inches in depth and 35 inches in height with adjustable feet. This means that the rough opening in your cabinets must be 24- by 24- by 35-inch. The dishwasher itself may be somewhere around 23 5/8 by 23 5/8 by 34 inches.
There are three main sizes available, according to width: 18, 22, and 24 inches. The standard dishwasher is 24 inches wide, while the 18-inch and 22-inch options are used mainly to save space in smaller kitchens, such as in apartments or common work/living areas.
All appliances including ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers and microwaves need to be in place prior to installation process. After installation of countertops, final wall preparation can begin. Do not paint, tile or wallpaper areas above countertops prior to installation.
Are built-in dishwashers all the same size? No – dishwasher dimensions can vary slightly between brands and models. There is however a standard dishwasher size range, with the majority of built-in units measuring within 810-850mm high, 540-570mm deep and 585-605mm wide.
Dishwashers should be placed next to the kitchen sink – either on the right or left-hand side – as well as being close to storage units. It is also important to ensure that your dishwasher placement allows freedom of movement.
Tuck it underneath the sink: Opt for a single-bowl sink and integrate the under-sink dishwasher, beneath the countertop to the side of the bowl and the sink's piping.
Most dishwashers can be laid on their back while others should be laid on their side. If the dishwasher is top-heavy, laying it on its back may be best. However, you always want to check the manufacturer's instructions beforehand.
What is the smallest dishwasher? Compact dishwashers (also known as space saver dishwashers ) are smaller than the traditional 24-inch size. These dishwashers usually measure 18 inches. You can also opt for a single drawer dishwasher with 24-inch width and 17-inch height.
Generally, most appliance manufacturers recommend a minimum of 27 inches or more between the edge of the dishwasher door when ajar and the facing cabinets.
All dishwashers require a licensed plumber to install the plumbing and an electrician for the power outlet. Licensed plumbers know the requirements of a dishwasher installation. Most handy people won't. Dishwashers require a mini stop tap and pressure limiting valve.
Dishwashers are hardwired. They consume a relatively high amount of power, so it is not advised to use the same method to connect your other household appliances.
A professional can take around an hour to install your dishwasher, as long as no extra kitchen modifications are needed. A DIY job, under the same conditions, would take closer to two or three hours, depending on your level of experience.
Connecting a new dishwasher requires three connections: a power-cord connection, a water supply connection, and a drain line connection. DIYers can do all of these if they understand what's required. The power connection may be the trickiest, especially if you don't have experience with electrical wiring.
Many dishwashers have 1/2" - 3/4" gap or clearance to the counter top. This is not unusual. Many manufacturers require a certain amount of "clearance" to the top of the counter top/sides of the cabinets due to heat and humidity that comes of the machine.
It may be that the drain line is coiled up behind it and is preventing it from moving back any farther. If the dishwasher is in a kitchen island, look at the back of the cabinet opening. It may be that there is a strip of wood along the bottom of the floor which is used as a nailer for the cabinet back.
You will need to purchase a pre-finished cabinet frame filler. They typically come 3" wide x 36" long. The dishwasher must be removed, the filler installed and attached to the cabinet and the the dishwasher installed mounting to the filler.