Yes: go for it
If the existing hookups work, replacement is one of the friendliest DIY home jobs. Save $150 to $300 in labor.
Hire out the electrical
Drain and supply tap-in: feasible for skilled DIYers. New 20-amp circuit: licensed electrician, full stop.
DIY replacement: step by step
- 01
Cut power & water
Flip the dishwasher's breaker. Close the under-sink hot water shutoff. Verify with a test cycle.
- 02
Disconnect old unit
Remove kickplate. Disconnect drain hose, supply line, and electrical (plug or junction box). Loosen mounting screws to cabinet.
- 03
Slide out old unit
Lower adjustable feet. Pull straight out. Inspect floor and cabinet sides for damage before placing new unit.
- 04
Prep new unit
Attach new 3/8" braided supply line and 90-deg elbow. Tighten clockwise; do not over-torque (cross-threading is the #1 mistake).
- 05
Slide new unit in
Route supply line, drain hose, and power cord through the cabinet hole as you push the unit in. Don't pinch any line.
- 06
Connect everything
Supply line to inlet valve. Drain hose to disposal/sink drain with high loop or air gap. Power: plug in or wire to junction box.
- 07
Level & secure
Adjust feet front-to-back and side-to-side until bubble level reads true. Mount to cabinet (top or sides per model). Re-attach kickplate.
- 08
Test cycle
Open shutoff. Restore power. Run a short cycle. Watch for leaks at supply, drain, and door seal.
Common DIY problems & how to handle them
Supply threads won't engage
Cross-threaded. Back off, restart by hand, then snug with a wrench. Never force.
Drain hose won't reach
Use a dishwasher drain extension (3-6 ft, $10-20). Maintain the high loop.
Door hits cabinet/island
Measure clearance before buying. Most need 24-inch depth plus 27-inch door swing.
Unit won't level
Adjust each foot. If still off, shim with composite shims; never wood (water exposure).
Old unit hardwired
Stop. Hire an electrician for a $80-150 rewire or outlet install.
Leaks at supply joint
Tighten 1/4 turn past hand-tight. If still leaking, replace the gasket or supply line.
DIY new installation: feasible vs not
| Task | DIY? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tap into existing under-sink drain | Yes | Compression fittings, no soldering required |
| Run supply line if accessible | Yes | Braided supply, T-fitting, shutoff valve |
| Replace shutoff valve | Maybe | Compression valves are DIY; soldered are not |
| New 20-amp electrical circuit | No | Permit + license required in most US states |
| Hardwire to junction box | No | Often voids warranty; check insurance terms |
| Open / patch walls | Skilled only | Drywall and trim work feasible if you've done it |
Tools and materials checklist
- 3/8" braided supply line (5 ft)$15-25
- 90-deg dishwasher elbow fitting$5-10
- Drain hose extension$10-20
- Adjustable wrench & channel-locks$15-30
- Bubble level (24")$10-20
- Phillips & flathead screwdrivers$10-20
- Composite leveling shims$5-10
- Towel + bucket for residual water$0
Total materials: $30-80