How To Install A Countertop Dishwasher Under The Sink ?

Installing a countertop dishwasher under the sink can be very helpful when you are working inside the kitchen. You can do basic cleaning on the sink and put it directly on the dishwasher under the sink. Very convenient! Isn’t it? 

Not only that, it can save space in your kitchen and make cleaning dishes easier. But the question here is, how to install a countertop dishwasher under the sink? Well, that is not that much difficult. With simple guidelines, you may do it on your own. In this article, we will learn how can you install a countertop dishwasher on your own. But before that, we will know what tools we need to complete the task.

Tools and Materials Required

You have to make sure all necessary tools and materials are available near your hand to complete the task on time and most importantly without any pressure. See what tool you need to complete the whole task:

• Countertop dishwasher
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Teflon tape
• Water supply line
• Power supply cord
• Wood panel (optional)
• Saw (optional)

When you have all the materials in your hand, it’s time to install the dishwasher. So, now you are ready to go. 

Step-by-step guidelines to install a countertop dishwasher under the sink

To make the process easier for you, we have made a step-by-step guideline. This will help you to keep a proper workflow and complete the work accurately. Let’s see how can you do it:

Step 1: Measurement

The very first thing you have to do is the measure. You can do it even before buying one. During that time you have to make sure there are enough spaces for the dishwasher. And if you get the idea of which size dishwasher will fit in that space, you can buy based on free spaces under your sink. In case, you already have purchased one and it is way bigger than space then you may have to change or sell it. 

Step 2: Make the necessary adjustment

Well, this is a bit tricky task. As spaces under the sink are not very convenient for a dishwasher you have to do some extra work. Let’s see what adjustment you need here:

Restructure under sink cabinet (If have one)

You have two options here! If you just simply keep your dishwasher and planned to open the cabinet door then dishwasher to use it. Then you may not work with the cabinet. 

However, if you want a fixed dishwasher to get matching with the cabinet then you have to work some extra. The very first thing you have to do is remove the existing cabinet get and complete fitting the dishwasher. After that, you have to hire a cabinet maker or, design your dishwasher get and side cabinet on your own. 

Water Supply Line

Despite the countertop dishwasher coming with mini water tank inside that is normally filled by a jug to operate the wash cycle, you can’t use this option when it is under the sink. It is because the filling option remains in the top which will be out of reach when it is fitted under the sink. 

So, you have to create a water supply system to connect the direct water supply to your dishwasher using a hose pipe. At this time, you may need a plumber to complete the task. Or you have the idea to do it on your own then make sure you have turned off the water supply from the core and then work with it to make the dishwasher water supply line point. 

Water Drainage Line

It is a very simple task here. As every sink needs a drainage line and it remains under the sink, you can easily find the point to work with. Depending on the type of drainage pipe you can make your own solution. In most cases, there remains a hole using a pipe where the drainage pipe normally connects. In such cases, most plumbers add a 2-way pipe connector. However, every kitchen and its design is different, we can’t suggest the exact solution. 

Electricity Shocket

We do not recommend working with electric circuits if you are not a professional. To install a dishwasher anywhere, you must connect an electric cable to the washer. For that, it is good to make a socket near the dishwasher. 

Though this is a very simple task. If there is a socket nearby then you can connect your washer to it. Otherwise, you have to install a socket near the dishwasher. If you have a basic idea about electricity then you know how to make a wireline to install a socket. And if you don’t know how to do it, we won’t teach you as it is a risky task. All you have to do is hire an electrician.

When you are done with it. It’s time to fit the dishwasher inside. So, make sure you have done with the electric socket line, water supply, and drainage line work before starting fitting. 

Step 3: Install the Dishwasher: 

Installing a countertop dishwasher is pretty simple. You won’t have to fix it with anything. But when you are fitting under the sink you may need to use some board or panel wood to keep it fixed. So, try to keep the dishwasher left or right with the support of a wall/wood. Now, add a water supply pipe and connect it to the electric line. 

Step 4: Complete a trial wash cycle: 

After installing the dishwasher properly and adding leak free water supply line, simply turn the electric switch on and have an empty wash cycle. You have to do this to make sure everything is done correctly and the machine is working fine. Here, if you find everything okay then you are ready to do the next step, otherwise, you have to fix the problem you face first. 

Step 5: Enhance Appearance:

Now, it’s time to make the space looks beautiful. Normally, the under-sink space remains a bit wide and for that, the countertop dishwasher should be fixed on one side. So, you have to do some panel wood or cabinet work to make the other side match the kitchen. Here, you can take help from a professional or do it on your own. And completing one side cabinet work there remains a common problem and that is a gap between the dishwasher and sink. To fix that you can take ideas from our blog How to fill the gap between the dishwasher and countertop. When you are done with pannel/ cabinet work, your main work is over. 

Though the process of installing a dishwasher is a bit long but it is really simple. If you have basic experience of working household fixing then you can do it easily. So bring your screwdrivers and other necessary items and install your dishwasher on your own. 

How to Measure Your Space to Ensure a Proper Fit

It is very important to make sure the space you have for the dishwasher is enough to fit. Otherwise, it can look very bad after installation. So, proper measurement is a must. But how to measure accurately? 

Here, you will need a measuring tape for it. First, you have to measure height and then wide. After that don’t make any mistakes, you also have to measure the depth. But that is not all about measurement. Your space must have clearance for fitting pipes and connecting electric wires. So, take all these things into consideration and bring an accurate size dishwasher. 

Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Your Countertop Dishwasher

You increase your countertop dishwasher’s lifespan, it is very important to follow some tips. Let’s see some tips that can help you to operate your dishwasher in a proper way and increase its usability:

• You must use your dishwasher regularly to keep it functioning well. If dishwashers remain off for many days they may damage over time. 
• Use the correct amount and the right type of detergent. It is not recommended to use a dishwasher tablet as it is made for bigger size dishwashers and creates too many bubbles. So, for your countertop dishwasher use liquid detergent 1 teaspoon for normal wash and 2 spoons for very dirty dishes. 
• Remove large food debris from dishes before loading them in the dishwasher. It can cause the dishwasher to be cogged and end up with uncleaned dishes. So make sure you have removed large foods and debris.
• Do not overload the dishwasher. If you do it may not be able to clean your dish properly. 
• Keep your dishwasher neat and clean from both side to prevent bacteria growth and makes it look good. Not only that proper cleaning helps the washer’s drainage system to work well. 
• Check frequently and clean the spray arms and nozzles to ensure they are free from blockages.
• Run a hot water and vinegar cycle to remove any build-up debris or odors.
• Schedule regular maintenance service with a professional if you want your dishwasher to last longer and run efficiently.

By following these tips your dishwasher will perform better and last longer. Proper care and following the best way to use increase any type of machine’s lifespan. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Placement of Your Countertop Dishwasher

It becomes difficult to place a dishwasher if choosing a not suitable space for it. For that, it is very important to take some factors into consideration when planning to place a dishwasher in a suitable place.

1. It should be easy to put dishes in and take them out.
2. Selected spaces must have clearance to open the dishwasher get completely and some space for the user.
3. There must have a water supply line and a socket for electricity. In some cases, you may need to work to bring water supply and drainage lines with help from a professional. 
4. It should be the right size for your kitchen and fit in the space you have.
5. The dishwasher must be good in quality as it is a hassle to replace the dishwasher. 
6. It should look good with the rest of your kitchen design.

So, take all of these factors into consideration to select the final spot to fit your dishwasher. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Final Verdict

For a small family, a countertop dishwasher is more than enough and for installation one of the best places is under the sink. It removes easily to pre-clean the dish and put it directly in the dishwasher. But as the space under the sink remains narrow it becomes very difficult to fit the dishwasher. 

We hope our blog on how to install a countertop dishwasher under the sink was very helpful to you. If you want to say anything related to this topic or have any queries, let us know in the comment section. We would love to reply to your valuable comment and feedback.