Q&A for How to Install a Built In Dishwasher

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Is a dishwasher 120v or 240v?

Frank Boss
Electrician
Frank Boss is an Electrician and the Owner of AArdvark Electric Service based in Chicago, IL. With over 25 years of experience, he specializes in all forms of lighting installation including recessed lighting, under-cabinet lighting, and security and flood lights. He also has experience in all forms of residential and commercial electrical services including troubleshooting, correcting code violations, service upgrades, and ceiling fan installation.

Frank Boss

Electrician

Expert Answer

A dishwasher should always be hooked up to a 120V circuit, not a 240V one (which can damage the dishwasher circuitry).

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Question

Should a dishwasher be plugged into a GFCI outlet?

Frank Boss
Electrician
Frank Boss is an Electrician and the Owner of AArdvark Electric Service based in Chicago, IL. With over 25 years of experience, he specializes in all forms of lighting installation including recessed lighting, under-cabinet lighting, and security and flood lights. He also has experience in all forms of residential and commercial electrical services including troubleshooting, correcting code violations, service upgrades, and ceiling fan installation.

Frank Boss

Electrician

Expert Answer

Absolutely! As of 2020, the National Electric Code (NEC) requires dishwashers in residences to be GFCI protected. A change to dishwasher manufacturing has required cord and plug disconnect, which requires a separate GFCI outlet for use by the dishwasher (this is usually located below the sink).

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Question

What is the appropriate breaker size to accommodate the dishwasher?

Patrick Babcock

Community Answer

This will differ, depending on the size and features of your unit, and will be specified in your unit's installation manual. It is likely also listed on a label inside the jamb area of your unit's door. If you cannot locate either a tag or a manual, check the manufacturer site or a retailer's site for more information.

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Question

When having a garbage disposal and dishwasher, does the sink need to have an aerator?

Patrick Babcock

Community Answer

An aerator mounts on the faucet and has no function related to your dishwasher or garbage disposal. You are probably referring to what is called a vacuum break valve that prevents the creation of a siphon which draws water from the disposal into the dishwasher. These are recommended for most installations.

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Question

Is it normal for an integrated dishwasher to not have a top?

Community Answer

Yes. An integrated dishwasher is tucked beneath a standard countertop height; the exposed insulation and unfinished housing are concealed by the counter.

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Question

How do I change a portable dishwasher to a built in?

Patrick Babcock

Community Answer

Portable dishwashers are not designed to be built in. The plumbing on these units is typically set up to be convenient for hook-up to your sink, and they lack leveling feet and the hardware to secure them to your counter and cabinets. Best bet is to replace it with a built in, or have your cabinets made with a finished knee-hole to house the still-portable dishwasher to store it away when not in use.

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Question

Can a dishwasher be "hardwired", or should it be plugged into an outlet inside the cabinet?

Community Answer

Both types exist. Some have plugs (like my current one), others are hardwired.

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Question

Can I add extra insulation to help deaden the sound of my dishwasher?

Community Answer

If you have room you could line the cubby hole, where the dishwasher goes. Look for an easy-to-install, adhesive backed sound insulation for this purpose; cut to size, stick in place and push the dishwasher back into position.

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Question

I have an old house with no electrical box under the sink. Electrician said I'd have to tear out the whole wall and run a certain circuit to it. How do you direct connect it?

R2_d2000

Top Answerer

Try to contact another electrician to get a second opinion. You may not have to tear out the whole wall.

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