- Appliances
- Before You Buy
-
Support
-
Product Registration
-
Instruction Manuals
-
Model & Serial Number
-
FAQs
-
Need a Repair?
-
Parts and Accessories
-
How-To Guides
-
Safety Notices
-
Extended Warranty
-
Do you require further Customer Service? Click here for more details
-
- About Beko
For added peace of mind, Beko large appliances are eligible for our 10 Year Beko Parts Guarantee
Read More
We’re proud to have won the 2024 Which? Best Value Home Appliance Brand award, recognising our commitment for delivering high-quality appliances and exceptional customer satisfaction.
4.2 out of 5 rating from
over 33277 reviews
We are proud to be the UK's number one large home appliance brand, rated 4.2 out of 5 on Trustpilot.
91% of consumers
recommend Beko
We are proudly recommended by 91% of our customers on Feefo, an independent reviews platform with verified feedback.
How to Install and Connect a New Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing a new dishwasher might seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance, you can do it yourself or better understand the process when hiring a professional. Whether you're fitting a standard freestanding model or an integrated unit, proper installation is crucial for optimal performance.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps needed to get your dishwasher up and running smoothly, from prepping your space to connecting water and power supplies, along with some handy troubleshooting tips.
Preparing for Installation
Before attempting to hook up your dishwasher, there are a few preparatory steps you need to take.
1. Choosing the location: The first step in installing your dishwasher is finding the right location. Ideally, it should be near your kitchen sink to access water and waste connections easily. Ensure there’s enough space for the unit, considering the door swing and proximity to power outlets. Most dishwashers need a water supply, waste pipe, and a 13-amp power source, so make sure these are readily accessible. To learn more about how your dishwasher works, check out our guide. If you're replacing an old dishwasher, this is a straightforward swap, but if you are fitting a new one in a different location, it might require more planning.
2. Checking utilities: Before you start, confirm that your utilities are up to standard. You'll need to check:
- Water pressure: Dishwashers generally require a pressure of 1 to 10 bars. Make sure your home's water pressure falls within this range.
- Electrical supply: A 13-amp socket is standard in the UK. Make sure your power outlet is near the installation site and is RCD protected for safety.
3. Gathering tools and materials: To install a dishwasher, you'll need a few key tools:
- Adjustable spanner
- Screwdriver set
- Hose clamps
- Spirit level
- Teflon tape
- Bucket (for water leaks)
Installing a Standard Dishwasher
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a standard freestanding dishwasher:
Positioning the appliance: Start by sliding the dishwasher into the selected spot. Leave enough space behind the unit to work on the connections. Use a spirit level to ensure the appliance is perfectly level – this is crucial for proper operation. Most dishwashers have adjustable feet to help with levelling.
Connecting water supply: Connect the dishwasher’s water inlet hose to the cold-water supply valve. Ensure the valve is fully open, and use a spanner to tighten the connection, taking care not to overtighten, which could cause damage. Wrap Teflon tape around the threads to prevent leaks. If the hose is too short, you can buy an extension hose from most good hardware stores or online to reach the water supply.
Connecting to power: Plug the dishwasher into the 13-amp socket. If you are uncertain about the electrical setup, it’s best to consult an electrician to ensure the connection is safe and compliant with regulations. Make sure the plug is easy to access after installation for any future maintenance or emergency needs.
Installing the drain hose: Attach the drain hose to the sink trap or dedicated waste pipe. When fitting, ensure there is no protective bung / stopper in place, remove as required. It’s important to ensure the hose is positioned correctly to prevent backflow. Use hose clamps to secure the connection, and make sure the hose follows a smooth path with no kinks, which could lead to drainage issues.
Installing an Integrated Dishwasher
If you have an integrated dishwasher, here are the steps you need to take to hook it up:
- Fitting the appliance: For integrated models, the process is similar, but you'll also need to carefully fit the dishwasher into the kitchen cabinetry. Slide the unit into the pre-measured cabinet space, ensuring the back legs don’t snag on any wires or pipes.
- Connecting water supply and power: As with a standard dishwasher, you’ll need to connect the water supply, power, and drain hose. These steps are the same, but the tighter space in an integrated setup may require more careful adjustments. Make sure all connections are secure before moving forward.
- Securing the appliance: Once the dishwasher is in place and the connections are made, secure it to the surrounding cabinetry. Most models come with brackets that allow you to screw the dishwasher into the cabinet for stability, ensuring it doesn’t shift during use.
If you’re struggling with any of the steps, our video guides will provide you with a visual explanation of each step.
Installing an Integrated Dishwasher Door
Installing an integrated dishwasher door requires special attention. Here is how to ensure you do the job right.
- Attaching the door panel: Integrated dishwashers require a custom door panel to blend in with the rest of your cabinetry. Use the supplied brackets and screws to attach the door panel to the dishwasher, following the manufacturer’s instructions for alignment.
- Adjusting the hinges: Once the panel is attached, check that the door opens and closes smoothly. You may need to adjust the hinges, or bottom plinth for an even fit with the surrounding cabinetry.
- Securing the panel: After adjusting, double-check that the panel is securely fastened. The result should be flush with the rest of your kitchen units, creating a seamless look.
Connecting to an Existing Water Supply
If you’re putting in your dishwasher in a location with existing water and waste connections, the process is much easier. Simply connect the dishwasher’s water inlet hose to the existing water valve, and if needed, use extra hoses for any extensions. Make sure to tighten the connections securely and check for leaks before completing the setup.
If you're using extra pipes for a dishwasher installation, make sure they match the existing connections, typically ¾ inch. Use hose connectors to secure the extension and tighten connections with a spanner but avoid overtightening. Apply Teflon tape to threads for a leak-proof seal. Support longer extensions with brackets to prevent kinks, and always check for leaks after turning on the water. Finally, run a short test cycle to ensure proper water flow and leak-free connections.
Testing the Installation
Once everything is in place, it's time to test your work:
- Check for leaks: Inspect all connections – especially the water supply and drain hose – for any signs of leakage.
- Run a test cycle: Start a short test cycle to ensure the dishwasher is functioning correctly. Listen for any strange noises, check that the water is flowing in and out properly, and make sure the dishes come out clean.
- Final adjustments: If you notice any problems, now’s the time to adjust the leveling or connections.
