Many people often wonder whether dishwashers need to be installed right next to the sink. But is there actually any truth to this? Do dishwashers benefit from being placed right next to your tap?
If you’re lost trying to find the perfect spot for your dishwasher, you’re not alone! In this complete guide, we’ll find out whether your dishwasher needs to be situated near the sink, or whether you could place it anywhere else!
Does A Dishwasher Need To Be Installed Next To The Sink?
Most people assume that a dishwasher should be placed next to the sink so that the dishwasher can make use of the sink’s plumbing solution. While this can help to save on installation costs, you don’t technically need to place your dishwasher right next to the sink.
If you wanted, you could have your dishwasher in another spot in the kitchen, away from the sink. However, in order to do this, you will have to ensure that there is a connection to the water supply and drainage pipes. If you have a spot away from the sink where these connections already exist, then by all means hook it up there. If not, you will need to spend more on plumbing to ensure your new dishwasher is adequately hooked up.
While it’s not totally necessary to install your dishwasher near your sink, it’s often much more convenient. Many people choose to rinse their dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. Rinsing your dishes before loading them into a dishwasher across the room will require you to drag sodden dishes across your kitchen!
Your dishwasher doesn’t technically need to be installed near the sink, however, it’s far more convenient. When the dishwasher is closer to the sink, it’s easier to load it up, and then unload it after cleaning!
It’s also recommended to keep the most essential elements in the kitchen within close proximity for your own safety and peace of mind. When essential kitchen elements are dotted around randomly, it can prove incredibly tiresome to move between them.
How Do You Choose The Right Spot For A Dishwasher?
In order to make your dishwasher a truly convenient and seamless part of your kitchen layout, you’ll want to make sure to find the perfect spot for it. What else do you need to consider to find that ever-elusive “Perfect spot”?
Find The Right Connections
We mentioned earlier that it’s easier to hook up your dishwasher to the plumbing if it’s near the sink. However, you also need to make sure that you have direct access to electricity to power the unit! It’s best to ensure that you can plug your dishwasher right into the wall from the chosen spot. Preferably, the wall socket should be positioned directly behind the unit, so that the cable cannot protrude and create a tripping hazard!
Left Or Right
We know that the dishwasher should be installed near the kitchen sink. But now the question remains: “Should it be to the left or the right?”. The answer will depend on whether you are left or right-handed!
For right-handed individuals, it’s best to install the dishwasher on the left side of the sink. When you’re rinsing dishes ahead of washing, you’ll be making use of your dominant hand to do the job. Once you have rinsed the dish, you can simply use your left hand to drop it into the machine.
Nearby Storage
No doubt, you want to spend as little time unloading your dishwasher as possible. To help make the process easier, it’s best to install your dishwasher as close to your kitchen storage as possible. This way, you can simply move plates into the correct cupboards, and utensils into the right drawers, without taking too many steps! Far less tiring!
It’s best to keep your dishwasher close not only to your sink but also to your kitchen storage. This way, you can put everything back in the right cupboard without having to walk all over your kitchen.
Create Some Space
As your dishwasher does its job, it’s naturally going to vibrate in place. You’ll want to make sure it’s not placed too close to other appliances, countertops, or walls. While you’re putting the dishwasher in place, make sure it doesn’t stick out too much, or otherwise obstruct your path through the kitchen. There’s nothing more annoying than having to dance past your dishwasher every time you go to wash your dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does A Dishwasher Have To Be Installed Next To The Sink?
A dishwasher doesn’t technically need to be installed directly next to the sink, however, it is more convenient. Here, you can simply hook your dishwasher up to the existing plumbing of the sink. As well as that, it also makes it much easier to drop your dishes into the dishwasher after rinsing them.
Does A Dishwasher Need To Be Installed By A Plumber?
It’s always best to rely on the services of a professional when installing a dishwasher. A professional plumber can ensure that your dishwasher is fully and safely installed in place. While it is possible to install your dishwasher yourself, you will have to make sure that you have the technical know-how to get it done properly!
Which Is Better Freestanding Or Integrated Dishwasher?
Neither type of dishwasher is truly better than the other. Freestanding dishwashers can easily be installed in your kitchen wherever you need them. An integrated dishwasher, on the other hand, will need to be more carefully installed. However, they have the benefit of creating a truly integrated and seamless interior design in your kitchen!
