Seven steps to remove and move a dishwasher
- Turn off the power. Switch off the breaker for the dishwasher and confirm it is dead before opening the lower panel.
- Shut off the water. Close the supply valve under the sink and run a drain cycle to clear the tub.
- Open the access panel. Remove the lower kick plate and check the wiring, supply line and drain hose.
- Disconnect the lines. Unscrew the supply line, release the drain hose and the power wires, and catch water in a pan.
- Release the brackets. Unscrew the mounting brackets that hold the unit to the countertop or cabinet.
- Slide it out. Pull the unit forward on a sheet of cardboard, with the door closed and taped.
- Carry it upright. Use a dolly with a strap, keep the door shut and tape the hoses inside the tub.
A built-in dishwasher is attached to power, a hot water line and a drain, and it is fastened under the counter. Disconnecting it is a short job if you do it in the right order, and a messy one if you do not. If the connections look unfamiliar, a plumber or an electrician is the safe choice.
Safety before you start
Water and electricity do not mix, so confirm the breaker is off. If the unit is hard-wired and you are not sure how to disconnect it, hire a qualified electrician. If the supply line is old or corroded, a plumber is a sensible call as well.
Drain the water
A dishwasher keeps some water in the sump and hoses. Drain the lines into a pan and tip the unit slightly to empty the sump, which stops leaks in the truck. Tape the door closed and secure the hoses and the power cord inside the tub.
Keep it upright
Many manufacturers recommend moving a dishwasher upright to protect the pump and the seals. Do not lay it on its back unless the manual allows it. See also moving a washer and dryer for similar rules.
Installing at the new home
New connections, a new supply line and a new drain are best installed by a qualified person. O'Brien's moves household appliances as part of a move; see household appliance moving and ask the estimator what is covered.