How to connect a compact dishwasher yourself

It's understandable that owners of small apartments with small kitchens are interested in compact dishwashers. However, it's important to understand that purchasing a compact dishwasher is only half the battle; it also requires proper installation and connection. Installing a compact dishwasher involves choosing or organizing the location, preparing the plumbing, and selecting the appropriate components based on the specific installation requirements. It's not as simple as it might seem; you need explanatory instructions. That's what we offer.

Good place for equipment

Even before purchasing a compact dishwasher, you need to figure out where to put it. Otherwise, you might find yourself with no room for even a small dishwasher in a small kitchen. What criteria should this location meet?

1. It should be accessible so that you can easily approach and load dishes.
2. The location should be close enough to sewer and water pipes, as well as an electrical outlet.

It is recommended to place the machine no further than three meters from pipes and no further than one meter from a power outlet.

3. The installation site should not be prepared at the expense of useful space, such as the kitchen, which is used for some other purpose. For example, you shouldn't place a dishwasher on a small countertop that is used for food preparation; the placement of appliances should be as rational as possible.

What locations are we talking about? Where should this machine be placed so that it performs its functions perfectly and doesn't get in the way? Let's give some examples. First, the machine can be placed under the sink, where it fits perfectly. It's close to the utilities and easy to access. Plus, it won't get in the way. We wrote more about how to place the machine there in the article. Compact under-sink dishwashers.

Secondly, the dishwasher can be placed on a free cabinet, if one is available. Thirdly, the machine can be hung on special brackets directly above the sink or table. This is an ideal location, as it won't be in anyone's way and will always be easily accessible.

When choosing a location, you'll have to use your imagination, as everyone's kitchen is unique, with its own unique features, including architectural ones. There are no one-size-fits-all solutions.

Consumables, tools

To install a compact dishwasher yourself, you need to be well-prepared. Purchase all the necessary supplies and gather the necessary tools. We'll now provide a list of everything you'll need to install the dishwasher on a dedicated shelf. We've chosen this complex example for clarity. Here are the components you'll need to set up the space:

• the strongest microwave shelf (they come unassembled, so you'll need to assemble it and hang it);

These shelves have a fairly large load capacity, easily enough to accommodate a compact dishwasher. The key is to ensure the shelf dimensions match the dishwasher's body.

• two dowels for attaching the shelf to the concrete wall;
• rubber pads that will need to be placed on the shelf.

Our dishwasher, like any other, will need to be connected to the water supply and sewer system, but this is only easy if everything is ready. If there's no outlet for connecting the machine to a water pipe or a trap, you'll have to purchase additional components and arrange everything. What do you need?

1. A tap with three standard ¾ outlets.
2. Filter with mesh (flow-through, coarse cleaning).
3. Sealant for threaded connections (type Tangit Unilock).
4. Plastic or metal clamp for drain hose.
5. A siphon with a special side connection for the drain hose of a dishwasher or washing machine.

Almost all modern drain traps have this type of fitting, but if yours doesn't, you'll need to purchase one. If you also have a washing machine in the kitchen, you'll need a special drain trap with two fittings. You'll also need to gather your tools in advance. Bring a drill, hammer drill, and screwdriver; they'll be useful for attaching the shelf. Also, bring pliers and a set of open-end wrenches to assemble the shelf. To connect the dishwasher directly, you'll need a small adjustable wrench, pliers, and a screwdriver.

Also keep in mind that if the distance from the dishwasher connection to the pipes to the installation site is more than 1.5 meters, the length of the standard hoses will not be sufficient. You will have to buy adapters for extension and additional hoses: inlet and outlet.

Installation instructions

Enough with the preparation, it's time to get to work. Assemble the shelf according to the instructions included. Check that all fasteners are secure and free of defects. Our shelf needs to be sturdy. Drill holes in the wall, hammer in plastic anchors, and screw the shelf into place. Make sure the shelf is securely fastened to the wall, lay a rubber mat on it, and test-fit the dishwasher.

Now we'll prepare the dishwasher's connection points to the sewer and water supply. First, we'll shut off the cold water supply to the house, then disconnect the main pipe leading to the kitchen faucet and the supply hose. We'll install a tee fitting on it, leaving the outlet where the faucet is located clear. We'll screw a filter onto this clear outlet.

Tighten threaded connections carefully and don't forget to apply sealant. Apply it against the threads.

Next, install the siphon and begin connecting the dishwasher. First, extend the drain hose to the siphon connector, attach the end of the hose to this connector, and secure the connection with a clamp. Screw the inlet hose to the free thread of the flow-through filter, which we previously screwed to the outlet of the tee faucet. Check the connections to ensure they are not dripping and give your new "home helper" a first test run.

So, we've basically figured out how to connect and best install a compact dishwasher. With all the tools and components, it's all a breeze in 30 minutes. But don't rush—in your case, quality, not speed, is key. Check everything several times before moving on. Attention is key in this kind of project. Good luck!

   

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