Installing a dishwasher isn’t something every homeowner expects to encounter, but knowing how before damages need fixing or it comes time to replace an old unit is handy knowledge to keep up the sleeves. While it seems straightforward, without prior info, many homeowners run into problems with cabinet clearance, water line connections, or leveling when fitting a 24 inch dishwasher into an existing cutout.
To assist you, our experts explain how to install a dishwasher with this clear step-by-step guide. As we guide you through the details, we’ll also explain the pros and cons of DIY installation, and details about professional dishwasher installation services available at Don’s Appliances.
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Sho 24" DishwashersHow to Install a 24 Inch Dishwasher
First things first: Let’s go over how to install a dishwasher step by step. We’ve put together this detailed dishwasher installation guide to take you through the whole process from start to finish.
Caution: Before performing any of the following steps, be sure to cut off your kitchen’s water and power supply to avoid injuries.
Step 1: Measure Your Dishwasher Cutout
Careful measuring sets the foundation for a smooth DIY dishwasher install before buying or installing equipment. Use a tape measure to check the width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening. Measure at the front and back openings for accurate measurements, and to catch potential uneven walls. Be sure to leave clearance for insulation, water lines, and the power cord.
Step 2: Install the Drain Hose
Attach the drain hose to the dishwasher outlet and tighten the clamp until secure. Then, push the dishwasher in far enough for the hose to reach the sink cutout. Once pushed in enough, feed the hose through the cabinet cutout toward the sink without kinks. Route it upward to create a high loop under the countertop or connect it to an air gap if required by code. Proper dishwasher drain hose install prevents dirty water from flowing back into the tub.
Step 3: Connect the Power Supply
Once the hose is inserted and properly mounted, plug the dishwasher into the dedicated outlet at the back of the cutout.
Step 4: Insert and Level
Knowing how to level a dishwasher prevents leaks, door alignment issues, and even uneven cleaning results. Once plugged in, you can push the dishwasher completely into its cutout and prepare for mounting. Carefully slide the dishwasher into the cabinet opening and guide the hoses and wiring to avoid pinching. Adjust the front and rear leveling legs until the unit sits flush with the countertop using a leveling tool. Place a level across the door and rack to check side-to-side and front-to-back balance.
Step 5: Secure the Dishwasher
The last step for installation requires knowing how to screw in a dishwasher and secure it. To do so, open the dishwasher door and locate the mounting brackets along the top or sides. Align the brackets with the cabinet frame or countertop and drive screws straight to avoid stripping. Confirm the unit doesn’t shift when gently pulled forward. Now that you know how to secure a dishwasher, you’re ready for a quick test.
Step 6: Perform a Test Run
Once Steps 1 to 5 are complete, restore power at the breaker and slowly turn the water supply back on. It’s time to verify whether your 24 inch dishwasher is ready for daily use without surprises. Start a short wash cycle and stay nearby. Watch the floor and connections for leaks, listen for grinding or rattling noises, and confirm the unit actually fills and runs.
If the dishwasher won’t start, sounds off, or shows moisture underneath, shut off power and water immediately. Recheck wiring, hose clamps, and mounting points. For the best results, consulting a professional appliance technician will guarantee your hookup is correct and ready for use.
Learn More: 8 Top Rated Dishwashers for Holiday Dinner Cleanup
The Pros & Cons of Installing a Dishwasher Yourself
Installing a 24 inch dishwasher yourself comes with a few benefits, but it’s important to look at the downsides as well before deciding. This is especially true if you're not sure how to mount a dishwasher or wire your appliance. To help you make a decision, here is a list of the pros and cons of installing a dishwasher yourself.
Pros
Affordable
No labor costs.
No Scheduling Issues
No need to wait for an appointment or delivery window.
Better Product Knowledge
Makes future inspections easier.
Cons
Skill Curve
DIY installation may not be as reliable as professional work.
Potential Hazards
Risk of injury when lifting or working with electrical and plumbing connections.
Possible Install Issues
Installation mistakes can lead to leaks, noise, or poor performance.
Learn More: Signs It's Time to Consider Replacing Your Dishwasher
Explore Professional Dishwasher Installation
If you prefer to leave appliance installation up to the pros, count on Don’s Appliances! We provide professional dishwasher installation backed by highly trained technicians and a long-standing reputation for service excellence, including consistent A+ ratings. Our team works with luxury brands as well as trusted mainstream manufacturers, so each unit is installed to manufacturer specifications. For homeowners who want dependable dishwasher installation Pittsburgh residents can trust, Don’s provides precise workmanship, proper hookups, and peace of mind that the job is done right the first time.
Double-up on your next dishwasher installation by shopping the area’s best selection of dishwashing machines together with the professional installation from Don’s Appliances. Check out these top-rating dishwashers, including in-stock dishwashers with free next-day shipping.
KitchenAid® 24" PrintShield™ Stainless Steel 360° Max Jets™ Third Rack Top Control Built-In Dishwasher with ProDry™ System
Shop This KitchenAid Dishwasher
Cleaning dishes has never felt this easy, thanks to KitchenAid’s innovative design and advanced wash technology. Its 360° Max Jets™ Third Rack and 50+ wash jets provide complete coverage across three racks that handle glasses, mugs, and cookware with precision. The ProDry™ System and Automatic Door Open Dry deliver table-ready dishes while minimizing moisture on silverware. With adjustable racks, satin-smooth rails, and a durable stainless steel tub, loading and unloading is simple and efficient.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KDPS624SPS Review:
“The dishwasher is fantastic! We shopped around and felt everything was cheaply made. The Kitchen Aid is not! The racks are sturdy and the layout allows you to fit everything in! It is basically silent when running and pops open when it's finished. Everything is dry and ready to put away! It is worth every penny! You will not be disappointed!”
Learn More: KitchenAid Dishwasher Reviews: 24 Inch Stainless Steel Built in Dishwasher
Bosch® 800 Series 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
At just 42 dBA, the Bosch SHP78DM5N24 inch dishwasher operates silently, with an InfoLight® signaling when a cycle is running. The redesigned EasyGlide™ racks move smoothly, even when fully loaded, while RackMatic® adjusts to fit tall stemware and large pots with ease. Wi-Fi-enabled Home Connect® simplifies cycle selection, helping dishes get perfectly clean every time. Additionally, it has a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish, ENERGY STAR® efficiency, and a 10-year rust-through warranty.
Learn More: Whisper-Quiet Dishwashers: 7 Models Homeowners Love
LG 24" QuadWash™ Stainless Steel Front Control Built-In Dishwasher
LG’s QuadWash® technology ensures dishes come out spotless by cleaning from multiple angles with four spray arms. The spacious third rack provides extra room for utensils and hard-to-fit items, reducing the number of loads needed. It doubles-up on cleaning with Dynamic Dry™ for dishes that are ready to use right away, while the advanced filtration system keeps noise low. Finished in an exclusive PrintProof™ stainless steel, this workhorse also resists smudges and keeps the exterior sleek and easy to maintain.
⭐Featured LG LDFN4542S Review:
“This is our second LG dishwasher. We recently sold our house, and the new one didn't have an LG dishwasher. So, we replaced it. This one is very quiet and cleans very well!”
GE® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher with Sanitize Cycle
If you're looking for a stunning 24 inch dishwasher, this GE model will be the perfect addition to your kitchen. With Dry Boost™ Technology, plastics and other hard-to-dry items come out completely dry. It’s intelligently designed with a versatile third rack and 4 Bottle Wash Jets handle hard-to-fit items with ease, and the smooth-glide upper rack simplifies loading and unloading. At 45 dBA, it operates quietly for dish care that works behind the scenes while you and loved ones enjoy downtime.
⭐Featured GE GDP670SYVFS Review:
“My husband jokes that he is going to send it back because it is too quiet! My glasses sparkle and my dishes are spotless. Love it!”
Cafe™ 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
This dishwasher from Cafe has a customizable top rack and a redesigned CustomFit Basket that holds silverware, stemware, and reusable items with ease. Four bottle wash jets and Ultra Wash & Dry cycles tackle everything from delicate glasses to heavily soiled pots. Adjustable middle and lower racks provide space for tall or uniquely shaped items, while Presoak and Sanitize cycles ensure hygienic, table-ready results. At 42 dBA, it runs quietly, and Active Flood Protect adds peace of mind.
⭐Featured Cafe CDT828P2VS1 Review:
“Easy to install. It's very quiet. Quick to start. Easy load and gets dishes very clean.”
JennAir® 24" Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Operating at just 38 dBA for nearly silent cycles, the JennAir JDTS3924SP 24 inch dishwasher is ideal for open plan kitchens. Once fitted, you can experience premium dish care with a Precise Fit third rack that keeps cutlery organized and dry with a water-repellent coating. The Superior Glide middle rack deliver smooth loading even when fully stocked, while the Automatic Door Opening enhances drying performance, making dishes table-ready.
Thermador® Star Sapphire® 24" Panel Ready Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop This Thermador Dishwasher
Thermador elevates kitchen integration with the DWHD661EPR panel-ready dishwasher that blends with custom cabinetry when installed correctly. The Adjustable Chef’s Tool Drawer® and folding tines provide flexible loading for pots, pans, and delicate stemware, while ZoneControl™ ensures targeted cleaning where it’s needed most. StarDry™ with Zeolite delivers exceptional drying without chemicals, and AquaStop® gives you 24/7 leak protection for peace of mind.
Learn More: What Are the Best Types of Dishwashers?
The more you know about how appliances work, the better you’re equipped to handle them, including installation and potential repairs that come from regular use. Whether these dishwasher installation tips have helped you mount your dishwasher or convinced you it’s a job best left for the pros, our experts at Don’s Appliances are happy to help you with your needs. Visit one of our showrooms near you today to learn more!
Why Trust Don’s Appliances?
Founded in 1971, Don’s Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Don’s has since expanded to 10 locations selling, delivering, installing, and servicing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
When our customers are remodeling or building a new house, Don’s has all the expertise, product knowledge, inventory, brands, displays, and services to meet and exceed your needs. And in the event an appliance breaks, we are there, right on time and with the right product, delivery, installation, and service.
Shop Dishwasher at Don’s
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop dishwashers online at Don’s Appliance. Our friendly experts are always happy to help answer your questions about a 24 inch dishwasher — whether you call us at 866-544-1711, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Don’s Appliances Pittsburgh, PA warehouse locations. Visit us today!
Learn More: How Long Should a Dishwasher Last? (+Maintenance Tips That Matter)