How much does it cost to install a dishwasher?
How much does it cost to install a dishwasher?
$200 – $500 replacement labor with existing connections
$300 – $1,300 install labor with new connections
$400 – $1,200 new dishwasher cost (unit only)
Dishwasher installation cost
Dishwasher installation costs $600 to $1,700 on average, including a new unit. The cost to replace a dishwasher is $200 to $500 for labor only. The labor cost to install a dishwasher is $300 to $1,300 where there was none before. A new dishwasher unit alone costs $400 to $1,200.
| Job type | Labor cost to install |
|---|---|
| Replace dishwasher in the same location | $200 – $500 |
| Install dishwasher where there wasn’t one | $300 – $1,300 |
Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members
Average labor cost to install a dishwasher
Appliance installation costs $150 to $350 on average for basic installation labor.
A plumber costs $45 to $150 per hour for jobs that require modifying the water lines.
Handyman prices are $50 to $80 per hour for a simple replacement.
| Installer service | Installation labor cost* |
|---|---|
| Plumber | $150 – $350 |
| Handyman | $120 – $250 |
| Home Depot | $130 – $220 |
| Lowe’s | $200 – $230 |
| Best Buy | $200 – $215 |
*Removal and disposal fees of the old unit cost $50 to $150 extra.
The following factors affect the cost of installing a dishwasher:
Delivery fees – Companies charge extra for delivery outside their service area.
Stairs – Installers charge more for labor to carry units up or down stairs.
Dishwasher relocation work – Installing the unit in a new place in the kitchen costs extra for cabinetry changes, plus extending water and electrical lines.
Plumbing repairs – Old plumbing sometimes needs upgrading during installation.
Circuit upgrades – The cost to install a new electrical circuit is $250 to $900, depending on its location. Licensed electricians add them for units that use more power.
Outlet installation – The cost to install a new electrical outlet is $150 to $350.
Permits – Some cities require permits that cost $25 to $100, depending on whether new electrical or water lines are part of the installation.
Garbage disposal – Garbage disposal installation costs $250 to $650 on average.
Cost to install dishwasher plumbing
The cost to install dishwasher plumbing alone is $150 to $250 to run a water-supply line from the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal. Rough-in plumbing costs $400 to $600 minimum for putting in new water connections and drains for a dishwasher, excluding cabinetry work.
Cost to install dishwasher where there wasn’t one in existing cabinets
The cost to install a dishwasher in a new location is $300 to $1,300 for labor, cabinet modifications, water-line extensions, and a new electrical connection. Total costs depend on the dishwasher type and installation location.
Typical first-time installation costs include:
Cabinet removal costs $150 to $400.
The cost to install a new electrical outlet is $150 to $350.
The cost to install a new electrical circuit is $250 to $900.
Cost to replace a dishwasher
Dishwasher replacement costs $600 to $1,700 on average, including materials, installation, and disposing the old unit. This price range is for replacing a built-in, standard 24” wide dishwasher mounted below cabinets.
| Factor | Average cost* |
|---|---|
| New dishwasher unit | $400 – $1,200 |
| Removing old dishwasher | $50 – $150 |
| Installation labor | $150 – $350 |
| Total cost to replace | $600 – $1,700 |
*Prices for replacement using existing electrical and water connections only.
Cost to remove old dishwasher
The cost to remove an old dishwasher is $50 to $150 on average, including disposal. Some companies include this service in the installation-labor fee. Junk removal costs $70 to $100 for a separate company to haul away the old dishwasher.
Many landfills accept dishwashers for free recycling.
Disconnecting and removing an old dishwasher takes 1 to 2 hours on average.
New dishwasher cost
Dishwasher prices are $400 to $1,200 for an average unit or up to $3,000 for high-end models. Expensive dishwashers can require more watts and electrical circuit upgrades.
| Type | Average price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Good (Basic entry-level) | $400 – $800 |
|
| Great (popular mid-range) | $800 – $1,200 |
|
| Excellent (high-end) | $1,200 – $3,000 |
|
*Unit prices for common 24-inch built-in dishwashers
Dishwasher installation FAQs
How long does it take to install a dishwasher?
Installing a dishwasher takes 1 to 2 hours on average or up to 6 hours when there are no existing electric or water connections. Total labor time includes removing the old unit and installing the new unit. Complex installations with cabinet modifications take longer.
How long does a dishwasher last?
A dishwasher lasts 8 to 15 years on average, depending on the brand, usage frequency, and maintenance.
Proper maintenance includes:
Scraping leftovers off dishes before loading
Cleaning filter and door seal monthly
Adding dishwasher salt if you have hard water
Loading dishes without cramming them together
Inspecting and repairing the unit immediately when needed
Can a dishwasher be repaired?
A dishwasher can often be repaired. Dishwasher repair costs $100 to $300 on average, depending on the brand and work needed. However, some manufacturers stop making replacement parts for units more than 4 to 7 years old.
Who installs dishwashers?
A plumber, handyman, or appliance technician can install a dishwasher. Home improvement stores and appliance suppliers offer basic installation on delivery.
Can I install a dishwasher myself?
You can install a replacement dishwasher yourself in most cases if it’s the same size and type as the old one. However, a licensed contractor is necessary for adding new connections or upgrading old utilities.
To install a dishwasher:
Shut off water and electricity to the old dishwasher.
Disconnect and remove the old dishwasher.
Unpackage the new dishwasher.
Remove the front-access panel to reach the connections.
Attach the water-supply and electric lines to the new unit.
Slide the dishwasher in place.
Turn on the water and check for leaks.
Level the unit and secure it to the countertop and adjacent cabinets.
Only a licensed electrician should work on your electrical panel.
Getting estimates and hiring dishwasher installers
Before hiring an appliance installer near you, be sure to:
Compare 3 detailed estimates from different companies.
Make sure the companies have a business license, surety bonds, and insurance.
Ask if the installer is a licensed plumber or NASTeC-certified appliance technician.
Read their reviews on Google and HomeGuide.
Look for companies with more than 5 years of experience and good references.
Get a signed contract and warranty copy before installation starts.
Remember that low estimates can signal low-quality work.
Only give the full payment when the job is complete.
Questions to ask
How long have you been installing dishwashers?
Are you familiar with all local building codes for this installation?
Is there free or discounted installation if I buy specialty dishwashers?
Does this fee include delivery, labor, cleanup, and removing the old dishwasher?
What type of electrical connections do I need installed first?
Do you use subcontractors to help install one where none existed before?
If I get a bigger unit, can you recommend someone to modify my cabinets?
Should I do anything to prepare the house for installation?
What factors can change my dishwasher installation price?
Will you pull permits if necessary?
Do you offer floor repair if damage occurs during installation?
Will you offer an installation labor warranty?
How do I maintain my new dishwasher?