5 Reasons You Need an Electrician for Dishwasher Installation

If you’ve recently bought a new dishwasher, you might be tossing up whether or not to take a DIY approach to dishwasher installation.

After all, there’s a certain allure to rolling up your sleeves, pulling out the toolbox, and simply doing it yourself. Besides, how hard could it be? It’s just a dishwasher, right?

Let me stop you right there.

Before you find yourself watching countless how-to Youtube videos, playing with wires and connections, and mentally putting together your application for the next season of The Block, there’s one thing you need to know when it comes to DIY new dishwasher installation.

You need to leave it to a licensed technician.

Though it might seem a fairly simple task to install a dishwasher, there are many key reasons why entrusting a licensed technician to the task is so important. Yes, you’ll need a licensed plumber to hook up the dishwasher to the water supply and manage the plumbing work, but you’ll likely need an electrician as well. Here are five reasons why.

1. Safety is Paramount

Hiring an electrician for a new dishwasher installation is vital, mainly due to safety concerns. When dealing with appliances like dishwashers, we’re dealing with more than just a physical structure.

Dishwashers require precise electrical and plumbing connections, both of which pose potential safety hazards if not installed safely and correctly. They may lead to risks such as electrical shocks or, worse, electrical fires.

On top of this, substandard existing plumbing connections might cause leakages, leading to water damage or mould growth in your home. The last thing you want is for water leaks to damage the power point in the dishwasher cabinet. Installation by a reputable and licensed professional ensures these risks are virtually nonexistent.

2. Compliance with Australian Standards

Hiring a licensed electrician to get your dishwasher installed will ensure you’re complying with Australian laws and standards. In all states and territories of Australia, there are strict laws regarding electrical installations within homes, and dishwashers are no exception. For example, in South Australia, only a licensed electrician can carry out work between the point of power supply up to and including:

• Any electrical wiring on the property from the main switchboard to the home
• Any wiring within the building to any electrical appliance
• Any fixed electrical appliances

It means that if you need a new power point or electrical connections for your new dishwasher, you’ll need an electrician.

It’s All About Safety and Efficiency

These standards have been designed to ensure safety and efficiency in our homes. A licensed electrician has a detailed knowledge of these standards and regulations. They also have the tools and training to make sure your installation is fully compliant. If necessary, this includes obtaining the required permits.

With a professional, your dishwasher installation will be:

• Completed in compliance with Australian Standards
• Inspected and approved by the necessary authorities
• Safe and risk-free

So, not only are you ensuring your dishwasher is correctly installed, but you’re also staying on the right side of the law!

3. They Have the Necessary Skills and Experience

Professional electricians bring a significant asset to your dishwasher installation: their skills and experience. Having spent years in training and working in real-world situations, they understand just how technical these installations can be.

Simply put, between the electrician and the plumber, there’s a lot to manage. They deal with everything from determining the correct voltage for your dishwasher to ensuring the proper fit and seal for the water connections.

A professional electrician also has the expertise to navigate potential issues that may arise during the installation process, including complications with the existing electrical wiring. With a licensed electrician, you’re not just paying for a service, but also for peace of mind, knowing they’ll do the job expertly.

4. Guarantee of Quality Workmanship

The guarantee of quality workmanship is another reason to hire a professional for your dishwasher installation. Our licensed electricians take pride in the quality of their work, backing it with a 12-month workmanship warranty. This means that if anything goes wrong with your dishwasher installation within a specified period, they’ll come back to fix the problem without charging you extra.

To learn more about your rights and protections, check out the Australian Consumer Law website. With a professional electrician, you’re investing in a quality service that lasts. They provide you with peace of mind and protection for your investment.

5. Saves Time and Money

Finally, hiring a professional electrician for your dishwasher installation will save you both time and money. While a DIY installation may seem like an opportunity to save a few bucks, it can often become time-consuming and costly. You may end up spending extra on tools you didn’t even know you needed or parts you accidentally damage.

In addition to this,  even just one simple mistake could lead to bigger issues in the future. This could potentially mean even more costly repairs down the line. A professional electrician will get the job done quickly and correctly, with no unexpected or hidden costs, ultimately saving you money and valuable time. Here’s how:

• Quick and efficient installation means less disruption to your daily schedule
• No need to buy special tools or equipment
• You avoid the potential costs of rectifying self-inflicted mistakes

Essentially, the upfront professional dishwasher installation costs can prevent higher costs in the future, making it a savvy long-term investment.

What About Replacing an Existing Dishwasher?

We’ve talked a lot about installing a new dishwasher from scratch, but what about simply replacing an old dishwasher? Do you still need an electrician to help you install a replacement dishwasher when all the electrical work is already there and done? Simply put, a simple installation that involves swapping out an existing dishwasher for a new model can be a DIY affair.

However, if you need to relocate or install new power points under the kitchen sink, or make alterations to the existing cavity, then yes you will need an electrician. Luckily, once they’re done installing a dishwasher for you, many will safely dispose of the old one on your behalf!

If you need to replace your old dishwasher, an electrician can advise you on the best available options. They can offer qualified information on whether a full or semi integrated dishwasher will best suit your needs. They can suggest whether you’re best served by a built in dishwasher or a freestanding model, and which makes and models are the most energy efficient.

When It Comes to New Dishwasher Installation

Sure, the DIY approach to installing a dishwasher might be tempting. It might seem like an opportunity to save money or even present a challenge that stirs your inner handyperson. Who knows, it might even inspire you to actually apply for The Block!

However, when you consider the numerous factors, it becomes clear that professional installation is the right choice. So, in addition to a licensed plumber, pay the call out fee for a trusted local electrician. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a new installation that is professional, correct, and safely done.

After all, your home deserves the best care, and your new dishwasher deserves perfect installation to serve you well for years to come.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.