If your dishwasher not in cabinet has become a pressing issue, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to solving this common and completely fixable problem.
Why Is Your Dishwasher Not In Cabinet?
The reason for a dishwasher not fitting perfectly into a cabinet can range from incorrect measurements to foundational issues with your cabinetry. Knowing the root cause will make the solution much easier.
Initial Assessment
Before attempting any fixes, assess the situation carefully. Here are some steps to follow:
- Measure the dishwasher’s dimensions using a tape measure.
- Measure the cabinet’s dimensions where the dishwasher is supposed to go.
- Compare the two sets of measurements to identify any discrepancies.
Problem 1: Cabinet Too Small
If your dishwasher doesn’t fit because the cabinet space is too small, you’ll need to adjust the dimensions of the cabinet. This generally involves altering the cabinet by cutting away some material to make enough room for the dishwasher.
Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the Dishwasher
Before you start, safety first. Turn off the dishwasher from the power supply and unplug it to avoid any electric shock. It’s also a good idea to turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
Step 2: Use a Saw to Modify the Cabinet
- Put on safety goggles and gloves.
- Use a pencil to mark the areas you’ll need to cut. Make sure you measure twice and cut once; you don’t want to remove more material than necessary.
- Carefully start your saw and follow the lines you’ve marked, cutting away the excess material.
Step 3: Smooth Out Edges
After cutting, the cabinet may have rough or splintered edges. Use a piece of sandpaper or a sanding block to smooth these out.
Step 4: Test the Fit
- Place the dishwasher near the cabinet.
- Carefully slide it into the space to see if it fits.
- If it doesn’t fit, you may need to return to Step 2 and remove more material.
Problem 2: Dishwasher Too Large
If your dishwasher is too large for the cabinet, the problem may be with the dishwasher itself. Most dishwashers have adjustable legs, and sometimes adjusting these can make the difference between a good fit and a poor one.
Step 1: Check the Legs of the Dishwasher
- Move the dishwasher away from the cabinet.
- Take a look at its legs. They’re usually at the corners and might have a screw mechanism.
Step 2: Adjust the Legs
- Use a wrench or your hands to turn the legs, shortening them.
- Test the height against the cabinet opening to see if the dishwasher will fit.
Step 3: Consider a New Dishwasher
If adjusting the legs doesn’t solve the problem:
- Measure the height, width, and depth of the cabinet opening.
- Use these measurements to shop for a dishwasher that will fit into your cabinet space.
Final Steps
Once you’ve resolved the issue of the dishwasher not in cabinet, reconnect all water and electrical connections, ensuring everything is properly sealed and tightened.
For more articles on dishwashers, click here: Dishwasher Problems and Solutions: Your Ultimate Guide to Hassle-free Dishwashing
Dishwasher Not In Cabinet: Conclusion
A dishwasher not in cabinet is a common issue but, as you’ve seen, it is also highly solvable. We hope this guide has been useful in helping you resolve this issue step-by-step.
