When installing a new dishwasher or replacing an old one, one of the decisions you’ll need to make is whether to hardwire it directly to your home’s electrical system or simply plug it into an outlet. Both options have their pros and cons in terms of installation difficulty, safety, cost, and convenience. In this article, we’ll go over the key factors to consider when choosing between hardwiring vs plugging in your dishwasher so you can determine the best option for your home and needs.
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Hardwired Dishwasher Overview
A hardwired dishwasher is connected directly to your home’s electrical system rather than plugged into an outlet. The process involves connecting the dishwasher’s power cable to the wires inside your electrical junction box, usually located behind the dishwasher. This provides a permanent, wired connection that can only be removed by disconnecting the wires.
Here are some of the main features and considerations of hardwiring a dishwasher:
- Requires basic electrical skills and tools to install
- Provides a secure, hidden connection
- Eliminates the need for an visible outlet near the dishwasher
- Installation cost is higher than a plug-in connection
- Hardwiring is required for dishwasher installs in some locations
- Making repairs requires disconnecting the hardwired cables
Overall, hardwiring a dishwasher involves slightly more installation work but results in a cleaner look without any visible cords or outlets. Many homeowners prefer this for aesthetic reasons. It also provides a sturdy connection that won’t get accidentally disconnected.
Plug-In Dishwasher Overview
Unlike hardwired models, plug-in dishwashers simply plug into a standard 120-volt electrical outlet using a power cord. This is the easiest and most convenient installation option, but also has some downsides compared to hardwiring.
Here are the main pros and cons of plugging in your dishwasher:
- Very simple plug and play installation
- Can use an existing outlet; no new wiring required
- Cords and outlet may detract from the aesthetic
- Not as sturdy of an electrical connection
- More prone to accidental disconnection
- May require unsightly cords and outlet relocation
As you can see, the trade-off for the installation ease of a plug-in dishwasher is a visible cord that may hang out from the dishwasher. The outlet also needs to be located close enough for the dishwasher’s power cord to reach. Despite these downsides for the appearance, many people appreciate the quick installation of plug-in models.
Comparing Installation and Wiring
The most significant difference between hardwired and plug-in dishwashers is the installation process. Hardwiring requires basic electrical knowledge and tools to connect the wires properly, while plug-in models only need you to insert the power cord into an outlet.
Hardwired Dishwasher Installation
Hardwiring a dishwasher’s electrical connection involves the following steps:
- Turn off power to the circuit at the breaker box
- Locate the electrical junction box and feed wires behind the dishwasher
- Connect the hot wire (typically black) to the matching hot wire from the junction box
- Connect the neutral wire (typically white) to the matching neutral wire
- Connect the ground wire (typically green) to the ground
- Secure all connections with wire nuts
- Place connected wires back into the junction box
- Turn circuit power back on and test operation
This needs to be done with the power turned off at the breaker box for safety. If you’re unfamiliar with home electrical work, it’s advisable to call an electrician to hardwire your new dishwasher. The installation cost will be $100-250 depending on your location and electrician rates.
While it does require more specialized skills, hardwired installation results in a secure, permanent connection concealed within your cabinets.
Plug-In Dishwasher Installation
Installing a plug-in dishwasher simply involves inserting the power cord into a 120V outlet. As long as the outlet is located within reach of the dishwasher cord length when slid into place, you can just plug it in and turn on the power.
The only additional installation work that may be required is relocating the outlet closer to the dishwasher if the cord doesn’t reach. This would require extending the wiring to move the outlet. If hiring an electrician, expect to pay $100-200 for this work in most cases.
Cost Comparison
One of the biggest differences between hardwired and plug-in dishwashers is the installation cost. Let’s take a look at the typical pricing to install each method:
Hardwired Dishwasher Cost
– Dishwasher unit: $500 – $1000
– Hardwire installation labor: $100 – $250
– Electrical supplies/parts: $10 – $50
Total installed cost: $610 – $1300
This can vary based on the dishwasher you select and your electrician’s hourly rate, but expect around $100-250 in additional installation fees to have your unit hardwired.
Plug-In Dishwasher Cost
– Dishwasher unit: $500 – $1000
– Basic plug-in installation: $0
– Outlet relocation (if needed): $100 – $200
Total installed cost: $500 – $1200
With a plug-in dishwasher, you can potentially install it yourself with no added costs for wiring work. Even if you need to relocate the outlet, it will still likely cost less than hardwiring the unit.
Cost Comparison Summary
While a plug-in dishwasher itself costs the same as a hardwired model, the installation costs are quite different. Hardwiring adds $100-250 in labor for the wiring, while plug-in models just need the existing outlet. In some cases, relocating that outlet could cost $100-200. Overall, plug-in models are $100-150 cheaper to install in most situations.
Safety and Longevity
Electrical safety and longevity are important considerations as well when comparing hardwired vs plug-in dishwashers. Let’s look at each option:
Hardwired Dishwasher Safety
Hardwiring your dishwasher involves connecting directly to your home’s junction box and electrical system. When done properly by a qualified electrician, this creates an incredibly secure connection. It eliminates any chance of accidental disconnection or loose plugs that lead to faults or fires.
For longevity, hardwired electrical connections will last indefinitely. The wiring inside the walls has a life expectancy of 30-40 years. So you likely will never need to replace or redo a dishwasher’s hardwired connection.
Plug-In Dishwasher Safety
Plugging in your dishwasher introduces some potential safety risks not present with hardwired models. Loose plugs or worn cords can lead to electrical arcing and fires. Accidental disconnection of the power cord also creates hazards.
However, these risks are quite minimal when using the dishwasher normally. Ensuring the plug fits tightly and inspecting the cord regularly virtually eliminates any dangers.
For longevity, the power cord itself may need replacement every 5-10 years. The constant plugging/unplugging and bending can wear it out or damage connections. But this is an easy fix by swapping out the cord.
Safety and Longevity Comparison
While a plug-in dishwasher has slightly more potential electrical risks, both methods are very safe when installed correctly. Hardwired models offer unmatched connection security. But plug-ins are also reliable if used properly. For longevity, hardwired connections last decades without maintenance or replacement. Plug-in cords may need replacement every 5-10 years.
Convenience and Portability
Hardwired and plug-in dishwashers also differ in terms of convenience when installing or moving them, and portability if you’re relocating:
Hardwired Dishwasher Convenience
The major trade-off for the secure connection of a hardwired dishwasher is decreased convenience. If you need to temporarily pull the dishwasher out for repairs or cleaning behind it, you’ll have to disconnect the wiring. The dishwasher is also permanently fixed in place. Relocating it to a new home or kitchen space requires disconnecting the hardwired cables.
Plug-In Dishwasher Convenience
One advantage of plug-in models is their convenience. You can easily disconnect the power cord to move the dishwasher in and out when needed. The portable plug connection also makes it simple to relocate the dishwasher to a new home or area of your kitchen if desired.
Convenience Comparison
In almost all cases, plug-in dishwashers will be much more convenient in terms of mobility, repairs, and relocation. The power cord allows you to quickly disconnect and move the unit. Hardwired installations permanently fix the dishwasher in place, requiring more work for repairs or relocation.
Aesthetic Differences
The visible power cord and outlet of a plug-in dishwasher also create some aesthetic differences compared to a hardwired, concealed connection:
Hardwired Dishwasher Aesthetics
With the wiring hidden inside your kitchen cabinetry, hardwired dishwashers have a very clean, seamless look. There are no visible cords or wall outlets to detract from your kitchen’s design. This is why hardwiring is required in many higher-end kitchens and remodels.
Plug-In Dishwasher Aesthetics
Plug-in dishwashers will have a power cord running from the rear of the unit over to an electrical outlet. This may be unsightly and clutter up your cabinet space. It also may limit where you can locate the dishwasher if the cord needs to reach an outlet.
Aesthetic Comparison
For the most clean and integrated aesthetic, hardwired dishwashers are preferable. But if you don’t mind the look of a power cord, then a plug-in dishwasher can work fine. With creative cord routing and outlet placement, you can also minimize the aesthetic impact.
Resale Value Differences
Hardwired or plug-in installation also has minimal impact on home resale value:
Hardwired Dishwashers
In high-end kitchens and newer homes, hardwired dishwashers are generally expected. This integrated look may slightly bolster home value compared to visible plug-in cords. But in most cases, the electrical connection doesn’t affect home prices. Location, fixtures, cabinets, and appliances themselves are much more important.
Plug-In Dishwashers
While visible cords may detract aesthetically, plug-in dishwashers don’t negatively or positively affect resale value. As long as the appliance functions properly, that is the main consideration for buyers. The ease of installing plug-in models also makes them convenient during home sales.
Resale Value Comparison
Ultimately, the choice between hardwired vs plug-in dishwasher has negligible impact on potential home sale prices. Kitchen upgrades as a whole may improve value, but the dishwasher itself is rarely a deciding factor for buyers and doesn’t differ much between installation options. Focus on your own preferences rather than resale considerations.
Conclusion
Determining whether hardwiring or plugging in is better for your dishwasher primarily depends on your specific needs:
– Hardwired pros: permanent connection, code compliance, cleaner look
– Plug-in pros: affordable, portable, convenient install
Consider your kitchen setup, electrical access, mobility needs, and aesthetic preferences. For most homeowners, the lower cost and simpler installation of plug-in models make them the practical choice. But hardwired dishwashers provide unrivaled durability and seamless integration if those factors are important for your home.
Carefully weighing these factors against your needs and budget will determine the best wiring choice when installing your dishwasher. And you can’t go wrong with either electrical connection. Both options are safe, reliable, and will serve your cleaning needs for years to come.