Decision matrix
| Your situation | Who to hire | Approx cost | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replacing existing dishwasher (existing hookups good) | Appliance technician | $150-300 | Lowest cost, fastest scheduling |
| Replacing + want haul-away + appliance from retailer | Retailer bundle | $99-150 | Convenient if buying the unit there |
| Replacing but old unit is hardwired | Tech + electrician | $230-450 | Electrician for $80-150 callout |
| First-time install, plumbing exists nearby | Licensed plumber | $300-500 | Pulls plumbing permit |
| First-time install + new dedicated circuit | Plumber + electrician | $700-2,000 | Two trades, often two visits |
| Moving dishwasher to a new location | Plumber (lead) | $500-1,500 | May need carpenter or GC too |
Appliance technician
What they do: Connect existing hookups, disconnect old unit, level, run a test cycle.
Hourly rate: $75 to $125/hr, typically $150 to $300 flat for a standard replacement.
Where to find: appliance retailers, independent appliance service companies, Thumbtack, Angi.
Pros
- + Lowest cost for swap jobs
- + Familiar with brand quirks
- + Often same-day
Cons
- - Not licensed for plumbing/electrical
- - Cannot create new hookups
- - Cannot pull permits
Licensed plumber
What they do: Install new water supply, drain lines, modify existing plumbing, install the appliance as part of the job.
Hourly rate: $75 to $150/hr.
Needed when: first-time install, moving the dishwasher, old pipes corroded, code requires permit-pulled work.
Licensed electrician
When needed: No suitable outlet, hardwired-only models (Miele), circuit needs upgrading.
New dedicated 20-amp circuit: $250 to $900 depending on panel distance.
Retailer installation services
Cost: $99 to $150 with appliance purchase, contracted to local third-party installers.
What's included: Basic replacement only; existing hookups must be in good condition; standard plug-in unit.
What's NOT included: New hookups, hardwiring, haul-away (often extra), permits.
Verdict: Good for a simple, standard replacement when you're already buying the unit there. Skip for anything complex.
Getting quotes
- Get 3 quotes. Spread saves $75 to $150 on average.
- Ask: license number, scope, what's not included, haul-away policy, permit responsibility.
- Verify license: state contractor license lookup. city resources.
- Red flag: cash only, no written quote, vague "installation fee" line.