How to Measure Your Dishwasher: A Comprehensive Guide for Seamless Installation

Buying a new dishwasher is an exciting prospect. It promises a future of sparkling clean dishes and less time spent at the sink. However, before you get carried away with appliance features and sleek designs, there’s a crucial step you can’t afford to skip: accurately measuring the space where your new dishwasher will reside. Incorrect measurements can lead to installation nightmares, damaged cabinetry, and a significant waste of time and resources. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you get the right size dishwasher for your kitchen.

Why Accurate Dishwasher Measurements Are Essential

Before diving into the how-to, it’s important to understand why precise measurements are non-negotiable:

• Prevent Fit Issues: Dishwashers come in standard sizes, but kitchen spaces can vary significantly. The goal is to ensure that your chosen dishwasher fits comfortably in the allocated space without being too tight or too loose.
• Avoid Damage: A dishwasher that’s too large can damage surrounding cabinetry, countertops, and even plumbing. A dishwasher that’s too small might leave unsightly gaps and require additional modifications.
• Ensure Proper Function: A poorly fitted dishwasher may not close correctly, could be tilted, or can interfere with its plumbing connections, leading to leaks and malfunctions.
• Simplify Installation: Accurate measurements allow for a smooth and stress-free installation process, whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional.
• Save Time and Money: Getting the right measurements the first time will prevent costly returns, re-deliveries, and the headaches associated with attempting to force a poorly sized appliance into the wrong space.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these essential tools:

• Measuring Tape: A retractable metal measuring tape is the most accurate tool for this job. Avoid using cloth measuring tapes, as they can stretch and lead to inaccurate results.
• Pencil or Pen: You’ll need something to jot down your measurements as you go.
• Paper: Use a notebook or piece of paper to record all measurements.
• Optional: Level: A level can be helpful in ensuring the cabinet space is perfectly level, but is not strictly necessary for measuring purposes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Dishwasher Space

Now, let’s get to the core of the process. Here are the detailed steps for accurately measuring your dishwasher space:

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Before you start measuring, make sure the area where your dishwasher will be installed is clear. Remove any obstructions, such as cleaning supplies, trash cans, or anything else that might get in the way. This will allow for easy access to the areas you need to measure and ensure a more accurate reading.

Step 2: Measure the Width

Where to Measure:

The width measurement determines how much horizontal space is available for your dishwasher. It’s crucial to measure at the widest points of the opening. Start by measuring across the bottom of the opening, where the dishwasher will sit on the floor. Then measure at the middle, and finally the top, to make sure that the cabinet is consistent and doesn’t have any bottlenecks. If you have any molding on the opening, measure where the molding is, and measure the opening itself. It is good to take multiple measurement in the horizontal direction to ensure that the opening is as wide as expected or if it tapers at any location.

How to Measure:

Place the end of your measuring tape against one side of the opening and extend it horizontally to the opposite side. Ensure that the measuring tape is level and straight, not bending or drooping. Note down this measurement in inches. If you are using metric, take note in centimeters.

Important Considerations:

• Account for Trim: Don’t measure only the opening; consider any trim, molding, or door frames that might intrude into the space. Measure at the widest point, including trim, if applicable.
• Double-Check: It’s always a good idea to take the measurement at least twice to ensure accuracy. If the measurements differ slightly, use the smaller measurement, as you can always adjust a gap, but you cannot fit something into a space that is smaller.

Step 3: Measure the Height

Where to Measure:

The height measurement is needed to make sure the dishwasher can fit vertically. Measure the opening from the floor up to the underside of the countertop or the cabinet opening, depending on your kitchen layout. Take multiple measurements to ensure a consistent height. Start with the measurement on the left, and then take one on the right, and finally in the middle.

How to Measure:

Place the end of your measuring tape on the floor and extend it vertically to the underside of the countertop. Ensure the measuring tape is vertical and not angled. Take your reading at the bottom of the cabinet or counter, noting down this measurement in inches or centimeters as you go. This is the highest that your dishwasher can reach.

Important Considerations:

• Countertop Overhang: If your countertop has an overhang that extends past the cabinet face, be sure to account for this and measure from the floor to the bottom of the countertop edge. If you aren’t sure where the bottom of the countertop is, then measure all the way from the floor to the top, and then measure the top of the cabinet to the bottom of the countertop. Subtract the second measurement from the first to obtain the height of the opening.
• Floor Level: Make sure the measurement is done with the measuring tape level, as an uneven floor could make the measurement seem higher than it is. Use the level to determine if the floor is even.

Step 4: Measure the Depth

Where to Measure:

The depth measurement determines how far back the dishwasher can sit. You will need to measure the depth of the opening, ensuring that the dishwasher has room for its door, and any space needed for the plumbing.

How to Measure:

Place the end of your measuring tape against the back wall of the opening and extend it forward to the front edge of the cabinetry or countertop. This measurement needs to ensure that there’s enough space for the dishwasher and allow room for the door to open and close completely. Note down this measurement.

Important Considerations:

• Include Door Clearance: While the cabinet opening is important, you also need to consider how far the dishwasher door will protrude when it’s open. If the door can’t fully open due to obstructions, you might need a different model. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the required door opening depth.
• Plumbing and Electrical: Remember, the depth calculation must also factor in space for the dishwasher’s plumbing connections (water supply and drain) and electrical outlet. These may add additional space, so make note of where these connection points are located and how much space they take up.

Step 5: Measure Adjacent Cabinets

Why Measure Adjacent Cabinets?

You must also consider any cabinets that are on either side of the dishwasher opening. If these cabinets are too close or are taller than the countertop, they might hinder the installation of your dishwasher, or the opening and closing of the door. This is another reason to take multiple measurements to ensure everything will fit.

How to Measure:

Measure the height and depth of these cabinets that are beside the opening that will hold your dishwasher. Make sure to take note of any other obstacles, like drawer handles, that stick out further than the cabinet face.

Step 6: Take Photos and Sketch

Why Photos and Sketches?

Once you’ve recorded all your measurements, it’s a good idea to take some photos of the space and make a quick sketch. These visuals can help you visualize the space, communicate with sales representatives, or share with any installers.

How to Take Photos:

• Wide Angle: Take one or two photos of the entire dishwasher opening and the surrounding area, including the surrounding cabinets and countertop.
• Close-Ups: Take close-up photos of any potential problem areas, such as trim, molding, or plumbing connections.

How to Sketch:

• Basic Shapes: Don’t worry about making an artistic masterpiece. A simple sketch with basic shapes representing the cabinets, countertop, and dishwasher opening is sufficient.
• Label Dimensions: Label each measurement directly on your sketch.

Understanding Standard Dishwasher Sizes

Dishwashers typically come in two standard widths:

• Standard Dishwashers: These are typically 24 inches wide, 35 inches tall, and 24 inches deep.
• Compact Dishwashers: These are generally 18 inches wide, 35 inches tall, and 24 inches deep, but compact size and capacity may vary.

However, it’s crucial not to assume that all dishwashers adhere strictly to these measurements. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact dimensions of the model you’re considering. You should take into account the width, height, and depth provided in the manufacturer’s documentation.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Read the Manual: Once you’ve selected your dishwasher, read the manufacturer’s installation manual, which will provide specific measurement guidelines and clearance requirements. These can sometimes differ slightly from standard sizes.
• Adjustable Feet: Dishwashers often have adjustable feet that allow for minor height adjustments. Keep this in mind if your measured opening is slightly taller than the dishwasher’s specifications.
• Professional Consultation: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the measurement process, consult a professional plumber or appliance installer. They can accurately assess your space and advise on the best dishwasher fit.
• Door Clearance: Again, pay close attention to how far the dishwasher door will extend when opened. A full-size dishwasher may not be ideal in a small kitchen if the door will obstruct walkways or adjacent cabinets.
• Plumbing and Electrical: Make sure the plumbing and electrical connections align correctly with the dishwasher. You may need to make some small changes, which should be taken into consideration when measuring.

Final Steps: Purchasing Your Dishwasher

With your precise measurements in hand, you are now ready to start shopping for your new dishwasher. You’ll want to review all your measurements, review the information from the manufacturer, and then make an informed purchase. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Compare Specifications: Before making your final decision, carefully compare the specifications of different models with your recorded measurements.
• Read Customer Reviews: Look for customer reviews that discuss installation challenges or any unusual size considerations.
• Verify Return Policies: Always verify the return policies of the appliance retailer, just in case you need to return your purchase for any reason, even if you did all the measurements correctly.

Conclusion

Taking accurate measurements before purchasing a new dishwasher is an essential step that can save you considerable time, money, and frustration. By following this detailed guide and considering all aspects of the process, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect dishwasher that fits seamlessly into your kitchen. Don’t rush the measurement process; invest the time to ensure a proper fit and enjoy the benefits of a flawlessly installed dishwasher for years to come. Happy dishwashing!