Dishwashers need three connections to operate.
A dishwasher typically has three connections: one for the water supply, another for the water discharge and a third for the electrical hookup. The dishwasher requires a hot water supply to heat the water up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit or higher to kill most germs. The dirty water discharges through a hose that connects to the sink's drainpipe.
Water Supply
The water supply line connects the dishwasher to the home's hot water supply. The plumbing for the hot water supply requires a valve to shut off the water to the dishwasher, which is separate from the hot water supply shutoff valve for the sink. A tee fitting placed on the hot water pipe allows another piece of pipe to connect to a 3/8-inch, quarter-turn valve. The quarter-turn valve connects directly to a braided supply line that runs between the dishwasher and the shutoff valve. A second option uses flexible copper tubing with compression fittings to make the connection.
Water Discharge
Used water must empty into the home's drain and waste pipe system. The discharge pipe may connect directly to the sink drain above the trap or to the garbage disposer dishwasher inlet. A piece of drainpipe with a dishwasher inlet replaces the pipe above the trap. The inlet is on an angle to the pipe and points upward after installation. On a garbage disposer, remove the plug from the dishwasher inlet port before making the connection. Some local jurisdictions require the installation of a device called an air gap on the dishwasher discharge hose.
Electrical
Dishwashers operate on either a 120- or 240-volt current. Most local code authorities require a dedicated circuit for a dishwasher. A new circuit breaker, wiring adequate to supply the dishwasher and a junction box in the space the dishwasher occupies complete the electrical supply. All new installations require a grounded circuit. If your home does not have a grounded electrical system, consult an electrician for proper grounding procedures. The wires from the dishwasher enter the junction box through a strain relief. Connections to the house wiring are made with wire nuts. Check the existing electrical circuits to ensure they are the correct voltage.
Installation
Most do-it-yourself homeowners won't have trouble installing a dishwasher. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for details specific to your model. Install the required hot water valve, the discharge pipe inlet and the 240- or 120-volt circuit. Installation instructions vary between manufacturers, but the procedure is essentially the same for most models. Once the plumbing and electrical connections are in place, set the dishwasher in front of the opening and make the electrical connection to the junction box. Attach the supply line and discharge hose to the dishwasher and put them through the cabinet into the space under the sink. Slide the dishwasher into the opening and secure it to the floor. Make the supply and discharge connections under the sink.
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