Are you facing problems with the installation and connection of your dishwasher? This article teaches the proper way of installing a dishwasher drain hose and connecting it to disposal.
It is very easy to hook up the drain while installing a dishwasher, but connecting a dishwasher drain hose and the garbage disposal requires specific knowledge and expertise. Besides, connecting the dishwasher becomes fairly easy if you replace the old dishwasher with a new one because you can duplicate the same drain hookups used previously.
Nevertheless, a few tips must be considered for a successful installation to get the desired results.
Types of Drain Hose Variations
Usually, you may encounter four different drain variations while making drain hose connections.
- Connecting the drain line to the garbage disposal through an air gap.
- Connecting the drain line to the garbage disposal by using a high loop.
- Connecting the drain line directly to the drain through an air gap.
- Connecting the drain line directly to the drain by using a high loop.
Tools/Equipment:
- Utility knife
- Screwdrivers
- Driver drill (optional)
- Adjustable wrench
- A mop and bucket
- Drill and spade bit
- Mounting hardware Cardboard or drop sheet (optional)
Materials:
- New dishwasher
- Hose clamps
- 7/8” drain hose
- Electric appliance cord
- Wire connectors
- Dishwasher connector kit
- Pipe joint compound
- Garbage disposal drain adapter (optional)
- Y-branch drain tailpiece (optional)
How to Connect Dishwasher Drain Hose to Disposal with Air Gap Fitting
You can use two different lengths of drain hose while using an air gap fitting: A 7/8” drain hose and the factory drain hose. The former extends from the air gap’s tailpiece to the dishwasher nipple, while the latter extends from the dishwasher to two tailpieces on the air gap.
Step 1 - Connect Hose and Air Gap.
Cut the dishwasher drain hose and connect its end to the air gap by using a hose clamp.
Step 2 - Connect Hose and Garbage Disposal
Connect the air gap’s large end to the garbage disposal through a 7/8” rubber hose.
Step 3 - Secure with Hose Clamps.
Secure both ends of the air gap and the garbage disposal inlet nipple by using hose clamps. To avoid any kinks in the hose, trim it down to size to ensure a smooth flow of drain water.
The following video can help you better understand the process:
How to Connect Dishwasher Drain Hose to Air Gap
In the absence of garbage disposal, you can tie the drain hose to the sink drain through the air gap.
Step 1 - Connect Hose and Air Gap.
Use some force to slide the drain hose and connect it to the air gap’s small side.
Step 2 - Connect Hose and Drain Pipe.
Use the 7/8” rubber hose to connect the air gap’s larger side to the Y-branch tailpiece. Use the appropriate size of the Y-branch tailpiece that fits the rubber hose.
Step 3 - Secure with Hose Clamps.
Secure both ends of the drain hose by using hose clamps, and trim down long hoses to ensure there are no kinks.
The following video can help you better understand the process:
How to Connect Dishwasher Drain Hose to Disposal with High Loop
If your local build codes permit the use of a high-loop installation method, you can install this type of dishwasher drain connection.
Step 1 - Drain Hose Preparation.
To prepare the drain hose, pull it from behind the dishwasher and create a high loop by using the extra drain hose. Following the high loop, connect the hose and the garbage disposal.
Step 2 - Loop the Drain Hose.
Now pull up the dishwasher drain hose and fix it under the sink at maximum height to prevent wastewater from siphoning back. You can secure the hose by using a piece of flexible pipe strapping. A large pipe clamp can also be used for this purpose.
Step 3 - Hose Connection.
In the last step, connect the hose and the garbage disposal by using hose clamps. Attach one end of a connectors to the smaller drain hose, and the other end to the garbage disposal.
The following video can help you better understand the process:
How to Connect Dishwasher Drain Hose Directly with High Loop
Use high-loop method after getting approval from your local building control authorities.
Step 1 - Loop the Drain Hose.
Pull the drain line from behind the dishwasher and create the high loop under the sink. To prevent wastewater from siphoning back, strap the loop as high as you can.
Step 2 - Connect Drain Hose to Sink Drain.
Connect the dishwasher drain line’s end to the Y-branch tailpiece and secure both ends with a hose clamp. Use Y-branch tailpiece sizes according to the dishwasher drain hose for better results.
The following video can help you better understand the process:
10 Tips for a Successful Dishwasher Installation
- Make necessary measurements to make sure the new dishwasher fits the area;
- Use cardboard to protect your floors from being damaged;
- To remove the old dishwasher, unplug all hoses & cables, switch off the power and water supplies, and remove screws;
- Remove the old dishwasher and inspect the cabinetry for any damage;
- Inspect the new dishwasher and ensure it has no scratches or cracks;
- Adjust the new dishwasher at the installation point and ensure it is stable. Connect all the drain hoses and cables through the hole;
- Connect the power and water supply and make drain connections under your sink. Take extra care while wrangling your dishwasher to avoid any kink or damage to the hoses;
- Give a test run to the dishwasher by turning on the electricity and ensuring there are no leakages;
- Follow the manual instructions to secure the dishwasher;
- Dispose of your old dishwasher.
The Final Verdict
Replacing an old dishwasher with a new one is relatively easier than installing a new dishwasher for the first time. You need to keep several rules in your mind to avoid any damage, and securely complete the installation process. Therefore, strictly follow the rules described in this article to avoid any catastrophic outcome and keep your home and everyone else safe.
Need Help from Experts?
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