How to Level Your Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Cleaning
Having a dishwasher that’s not level can lead to a host of problems, from ineffective cleaning and noisy operation to water leaks and even damage to your kitchen floor. A properly leveled dishwasher ensures that the spray arms can effectively reach all dishes, the door seals properly, and the unit drains completely. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of leveling your dishwasher, step-by-step, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
## Why Leveling Your Dishwasher Matters
Before diving into the process, it’s crucial to understand why leveling your dishwasher is so important. Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits:
* **Improved Cleaning Performance:** A level dishwasher ensures that the spray arms can rotate freely and distribute water evenly throughout the interior. If the dishwasher is tilted, certain areas may receive less water, resulting in poorly cleaned dishes.
* **Reduced Noise:** An unlevel dishwasher can vibrate excessively during operation, leading to annoying rattling and banging noises. Leveling the unit helps to minimize these vibrations, creating a quieter kitchen environment.
* **Preventing Leaks:** When a dishwasher is not level, the door may not seal properly, leading to water leaks. These leaks can damage your kitchen floor, cabinets, and even the underlying structure of your home.
* **Proper Drainage:** A level dishwasher ensures that water drains completely after each cycle. If the unit is tilted, water may pool at the bottom, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and unpleasant odors.
* **Extending the Dishwasher’s Lifespan:** Excessive vibration and strain caused by an unlevel dishwasher can eventually damage its internal components, shortening its lifespan. Leveling the unit reduces stress on the machinery, helping it to last longer.
## Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
* **Level:** A standard bubble level (2-4 feet long) is essential for determining whether the dishwasher is level. A digital level can also be used for more precise measurements.
* **Screwdriver:** You’ll need a screwdriver (usually a Phillips head) to adjust the leveling feet.
* **Adjustable Wrench (optional):** Some dishwashers have leveling feet that require an adjustable wrench for adjustment.
* **Measuring Tape:** Use a measuring tape to check the height of the dishwasher opening if you are installing a new unit.
* **Shims (optional):** If the leveling feet are not sufficient to correct the level, you may need shims. These can be small pieces of wood, plastic, or metal.
* **Gloves (optional):** To protect your hands from dirt and grime.
* **Flashlight (optional):** For better visibility in dimly lit areas.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Leveling Your Dishwasher
Follow these steps to properly level your dishwasher:
### 1. Preparation and Safety First
* **Turn off the Power:** Before working on your dishwasher, it’s crucial to disconnect the power supply. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the dishwasher and switch it off. This will prevent any accidental electrical shocks.
* **Turn off the Water Supply:** Locate the water shut-off valve for the dishwasher (usually under the sink or in the basement). Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply. This prevents water from leaking during the leveling process.
* **Clear the Area:** Remove any items that may be blocking access to the dishwasher, such as dishes, utensils, or cleaning supplies. Make sure you have enough space to work comfortably around the unit.
* **Protect the Floor:** Place a towel or drop cloth under the dishwasher to protect your kitchen floor from scratches or damage.
### 2. Access the Leveling Feet
The location of the leveling feet varies depending on the dishwasher model. Typically, you’ll find them at the front and rear corners of the unit. They are usually adjustable screws or legs.
* **Front Leveling Feet:** These are usually easily accessible at the front of the dishwasher. You may need to open the dishwasher door to see them clearly. They can be adjusted with a screwdriver or adjustable wrench.
* **Rear Leveling Feet:** Accessing the rear leveling feet can be a bit more challenging. Some dishwashers have access panels at the back that can be removed. Others require you to tilt the dishwasher forward slightly to reach the feet. Be careful when tilting the dishwasher to avoid damaging the water or drain lines. Some newer dishwashers also have front-accessible rear leveling feet.
### 3. Check the Current Level
* **Place the Level:** Position the level on the bottom rack of the dishwasher, both horizontally and vertically. Make sure the level is placed on a flat surface for accurate readings.
* **Observe the Bubble:** Observe the position of the bubble in the level. If the bubble is centered between the lines, the dishwasher is level in that direction. If the bubble is not centered, the dishwasher needs to be adjusted.
* **Check Front to Back and Side to Side:** Check the level both from front to back and from side to side. This will give you a complete picture of the dishwasher’s current level.
* **Note the Discrepancies:** Pay attention to how much the bubble is off-center. This will help you determine how much you need to adjust the leveling feet.
### 4. Adjust the Front Leveling Feet
* **Identify the Adjustment Mechanism:** Determine how the front leveling feet are adjusted. Some have screws that can be turned with a screwdriver, while others require an adjustable wrench.
* **Adjust as Needed:**
* **To Raise the Dishwasher:** Turn the leveling feet screws counterclockwise (or loosen the nuts with an adjustable wrench) to raise that side of the dishwasher.
* **To Lower the Dishwasher:** Turn the leveling feet screws clockwise (or tighten the nuts with an adjustable wrench) to lower that side of the dishwasher.
* **Make Small Adjustments:** Adjust the leveling feet in small increments. Over-adjusting can make the process more difficult.
* **Recheck the Level:** After each adjustment, recheck the level with the level. Continue adjusting until the bubble is centered.
### 5. Adjust the Rear Leveling Feet
Adjusting the rear leveling feet can be more difficult, depending on the dishwasher model. Here’s how to do it:
* **Access the Rear Feet:** As mentioned earlier, you may need to remove an access panel or tilt the dishwasher forward slightly to reach the rear leveling feet. If your dishwasher has front-accessible rear feet, locate those.
* **Adjust as Needed:** Use a screwdriver or adjustable wrench to adjust the rear leveling feet, following the same principles as with the front feet. Turn the screws counterclockwise to raise the rear and clockwise to lower it.
* **Utilize a Helper (Optional):** If possible, have someone help you tilt the dishwasher or hold it in place while you adjust the rear leveling feet. This can make the process much easier and safer.
* **Recheck the Level:** After adjusting the rear leveling feet, recheck the level with the level. Make sure the dishwasher is level both from front to back and from side to side.
### 6. Use Shims If Necessary
If the leveling feet are not sufficient to correct the level, you may need to use shims. These are thin pieces of material that can be placed under the leveling feet to raise them.
* **Identify Areas Needing Shimming:** Determine which leveling feet need to be raised further. This is usually indicated by the bubble in the level being consistently off-center in one direction.
* **Place Shims Under Leveling Feet:** Carefully lift the leveling foot and place a shim underneath it. Use enough shims to raise the foot to the desired height.
* **Secure the Shims:** Once you have the desired height, secure the shims in place with adhesive or tape to prevent them from shifting.
* **Recheck the Level:** After adding shims, recheck the level to ensure that the dishwasher is now level.
### 7. Final Checks and Adjustments
* **Check Door Alignment:** Once the dishwasher is level, check the alignment of the door. It should close smoothly and evenly without any gaps. If the door is misaligned, you may need to make further adjustments to the leveling feet.
* **Check for Wobbling:** Gently push on the top corners of the dishwasher to check for any wobbling. If the dishwasher wobbles, it means that one or more of the leveling feet are not making solid contact with the floor. Adjust the leveling feet as needed to eliminate any wobbling.
* **Run a Test Cycle (Without Dishes):** After you’re satisfied that the dishwasher is level, run a short test cycle without any dishes to check for leaks or unusual noises. Listen carefully for any signs of problems. Make sure the water drains properly.
### 8. Reconnect Utilities and Secure the Dishwasher
* **Reconnect Water Supply:** Slowly turn the water shut-off valve counterclockwise to restore the water supply to the dishwasher. Check for any leaks around the connections.
* **Reconnect Power:** Go back to the circuit breaker and switch it back on to restore power to the dishwasher.
* **Secure the Dishwasher (if applicable):** Many dishwashers are designed to be secured to the countertop or cabinets with brackets. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly secure the dishwasher in place. This will prevent it from tipping over or moving during operation.
## Troubleshooting Common Leveling Issues
Even with careful attention to detail, you may encounter some challenges during the leveling process. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
* **Stripped Leveling Feet Screws:** If the screws on the leveling feet are stripped, they may be difficult or impossible to adjust. You may need to replace the leveling feet. You can often find replacement parts online or at appliance repair stores.
* **Rusted Leveling Feet:** Rusted leveling feet can be difficult to turn. Try applying a penetrating oil (such as WD-40) to the threads and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to adjust them. If they are too corroded, consider replacing them.
* **Uneven Flooring:** If your kitchen floor is significantly uneven, it may be difficult to achieve a perfectly level dishwasher. In this case, you may need to use more shims to compensate for the unevenness. Consider using a self-leveling compound on the floor before installing a new dishwasher.
* **Difficulty Accessing Rear Leveling Feet:** If you are unable to access the rear leveling feet, consult the dishwasher’s owner’s manual. Some models have specific instructions for adjusting the rear feet. As a last resort, you may need to call a professional appliance repair technician.
## Maintaining a Level Dishwasher
Once you’ve leveled your dishwasher, it’s important to maintain its level over time. Here are some tips:
* **Regularly Check the Level:** Check the level of your dishwasher every few months to ensure that it hasn’t shifted. Use a level to verify that the bubble is still centered.
* **Inspect Leveling Feet:** Periodically inspect the leveling feet for signs of rust or damage. Replace them if necessary.
* **Avoid Overloading the Dishwasher:** Overloading the dishwasher can put extra stress on the leveling feet and cause the unit to become unlevel. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for loading the dishwasher.
* **Be Mindful of Floor Changes:** If you make any changes to your kitchen flooring (such as installing new tiles), recheck the level of your dishwasher. The new flooring may affect the unit’s level.
## When to Call a Professional
While leveling a dishwasher is a relatively straightforward task, there are some situations where it’s best to call a professional appliance repair technician:
* **If you are uncomfortable working with electricity or water.**
* **If you are unable to access the leveling feet.**
* **If you suspect that there is a more serious problem with your dishwasher, such as a leak or a malfunctioning component.**
* **If you have tried leveling the dishwasher yourself and are still experiencing problems.**
A qualified technician has the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair any issues with your dishwasher, ensuring that it operates safely and efficiently.
## Conclusion
Leveling your dishwasher is an essential step in ensuring optimal cleaning performance, reducing noise, preventing leaks, and extending the lifespan of your appliance. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can easily level your dishwasher and enjoy years of trouble-free operation. Remember to take your time, be careful, and don’t hesitate to call a professional if you encounter any difficulties. A level dishwasher is a happy dishwasher, and a happy dishwasher means clean dishes and a happy you!