How to Remove a Built-In Dishwasher

Under the counter or built-in dishwasher units make life a bit easier but certainly don’t last forever. When a dishwasher begins to fail, it might leak, not heat water, or cut off during normal cycles. Once it’s determined the appliance is on its last leg, you’ll have to pull it out, which isn’t a difficult task, but will take some time. These appliances are bulky and you’ll likely find that behind it and underneath have collected a lot of dust and debris. 

How to Remove a Built-In Dishwasher

The first thing you need to do is shut off the water and the electrical break powering the appliance. Next, gather your supplies and tools. These include an old blanket or drop cloth, a couple of adjustable wrenches, a screwdriver, pliers, a pan, a sponge, bucket, and towels.

Removing an undercounter dishwasher and replacing it will take an experienced installer less than an hour. You probably won’t manage the job that quickly, but it is a relatively simple procedure, especially because the plumbing and electrical hookups are already in place. And by doing the work yourself, you can save the $100 or more a retailer will charge, or step up to a model with more features. —This Old House

When you have your tools and supplies ready, put them on the counter near the dishwasher for quick access; then, place an old blanket or drop cloth in front of the appliance. Now, you’re ready to remove your built-in dishwasher by following these steps:

1. Using a screwdriver, remove the front, bottom panel to expose the water supply line (it will likely be flexible copper or a stainless steel line).
2. Place a pan under the line and then use a wrench to unfasten the water supply. The pan will catch any drips as you loosen the water line.
3. Open the cabinet doors directly under the kitchen sink and find the drain line running from the dishwasher.
4. Place a bucket directly under the drain connection, then unfasten the inlet arm coming from the appliance.
5. Unfasten the retaining screws located under the lip of the counter.

Once all these connections are unfastened, you can then begin to work the dishwasher out from under the counter, placing it on top of the blanket or drop cloth. You’ll have to also work the drain line out from the cabinet as you pull the appliance out of place.

Disposing of a Built-In Dishwasher

Because the dishwasher isn’t in working order, you’ll have to dispose of it. You can’t put it out on the curb to be picked-up by the local trash collection because of its size and also because it is an appliance. You can rent a truck, haul it to a landfill or recycling center, and pay a fee; or, phone a junk removal service to pick it up and haul it away.