Buying a New Dishwasher? Avoid These 5 Common Installation Mistakes
Buying a New Dishwasher? Avoid These 5 Common Installation MistakesGetting a new dishwasher can make life a lot easier—fewer dishes piling up in the sink and more time to relax after meals. But before you enjoy the convenience, there's one important step: installing it properly. Whether you're doing it yourself or hiring help, it's good to know what can go wrong. At appliancesrepairservice.ca, we’ve seen how small errors during installation can lead to big problems later. Here are five common mistakes to avoid so you can set up your new dishwasher the right way.
1. Not Leveling the Dishwasher
It might not seem like a big deal, but if your dishwasher isn’t level, it can cause leaks or stop the door from closing properly. Before securing it into place, make sure all sides are even using a level tool. Even a small tilt can affect performance.
2. Forgetting to Remove Packaging Materials
You’d be surprised how easy it is to miss bits of tape, foam, or cardboard left inside or underneath the dishwasher. Running a cycle with packaging in place can damage the machine or block parts. Take an extra minute to double-check everything before switching it on for the first time.
3. Poor Drain Installation
One of the most common issues we see is improper drain line setup. If the drain hose isn’t high enough—or if it isn’t looped or attached correctly—it can cause backflow and leave dirty water in your dishes. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the appliance.
4. Skipping a Water Leak Test
After connecting the water supply, don’t forget to test for leaks before pushing the dishwasher into place. Use a dry cloth or paper towel to check around the hoses and valves. Catching a small drip now can save you from water damage later.
5. Not Securing It Properly
A dishwasher that isn't firmly secured can shift over time. This can cause hoses to loosen or the door to become misaligned. Make sure to fasten it to the surrounding cabinets or countertop using the brackets that came in the box.
Taking a bit of care during setup can go a long way in helping your dishwasher run smoothly for years. If you're unsure about anything, it’s worth getting help rather than risking damage. A smooth start makes for cleaner dishes and less stress later on.