How to Disconnect a Dishwasher

If you have a dishwasher that needs to be removed or replaced, this may seem like a daunting task. It may be best to have a professional do this but you can learn how to disconnect a dishwasher if you want to take this on by yourself.

However, since dishwashers are fairly heavy, then it’s likely best to have at least one other person helping you.

Before you get started, you’ll need channel-lock pliers, screwdrivers, and a drop cloth. Once you have this equipment, you can get started. Use these steps to safely disconnect a dishwasher.

Shut Off Power

Since electricity and water don’t mix well, you’ll want to start by turning the power off to your washer. Find the electric cord that provides power and unplug it from the wall. This is often located under the sink.

If you find that your dishwasher has been hardwired into the electrical circuit, you won’t be able to unplug it. Instead, go to the circuit breaker and turn off the breaker that controls the power to the dishwasher.

You’ll then have to open the wire connection panel in the washer and disconnect the circuit wires. Unless you have experience with electrical work, this may be best left to a professional.

Shut Off Water

Find the shutoff valve that connects the water line to the dishwasher. This is usually under the sink and may be attached to the hot water pipe.

There may also be a two-way valve the controls the water to the faucet and the dishwasher. In rare cases, the dishwasher may not have its own fixture shutoff valve.

When this is the case, you’ll have to go to the main water valve for the house and turn it off before disconnecting the waterline.

Disconnect the Water Supply

Before you can remove the dishwasher, you’ll have to disconnect the pipes that connect it to the plumbing system in the house.

There are a few pipes that you’ll have to disconnect. The first is the water supply tube. A copper or plastic tube that is covered with a wire mesh, it will run from the washer to the shutoff valve.

Use your channel-lock pliers to disconnect the tube from the outlet on the valve. If your dishwasher does not have a fixture shutoff valve, then you’ll probably have to unhook the fitting that joins the water supply to the hot water pipe.

Disconnect the Drain Line

The dishwasher not only has a supply pipe but also a drainage line. This will be a rubber hose leaving the washer. Locate it and then trace it to the end connection.

It may be linked to the sink or countertop where you can loosen the clip holding it and then detach the hose.

Remove Mounting Brackets

The dishwasher is usually held in place with metal mounting brackets. These are held in place on the bottom of the countertop right above the dishwasher.

Once you open the door to the dishwasher, you should be able to see these brackets. They are not required but present in most washers. Remove the screws that are holding the washer in place.

Unscrew the Legs

The dishwasher typically has legs that are used to center and stabilize it. They will need to be lowered before you can remove it. Take off the faceplate that’s on the lower part of the dishwasher.

Once it’s been removed, you should see the legs of the dishwasher. Twist the threaded legs to lower the body of the dishwasher. This will create space between the dishwasher and countertop, making it easier to remove.

Remove the Washer

Now that you’ve detached all parts of the dishwasher from the counter and any electric or water lines, your final task is to remove the dishwasher. You’ll probably have to lift it slightly as you remove it from under the counter.

It may be helpful to have another person helping you as the washer may be fairly heavy. Use a drop cloth to protect the flooring from scratching or any water spilling.

This is a process that’s fairly straightforward but can be challenging for some. If you don’t feel comfortable with any part of this process, then it’s best to use a professional.

 

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