Wikipedia:Reference desk/Archives/Science/2023 December 25

= December 25 =

Replacing a dishwasher
Is this a built-in dishwasher? Standard installation from say Home Depot won't cover it, will they? Hopefully I'll get a better photo, but this one will have to do for now. Thank you. 68.174.155.22 (talk) 04:15, 25 December 2023 (UTC)
 * That looks built-in to me. Looking at, you can provide your zip code and the Home Depot will connect you with a pro that can install the new one.  RudolfRed (talk) 04:21, 25 December 2023 (UTC)
 * I would interpret this as indicating that Home Depot will install a built-in dishwasher, as long as a water supply with a shut-off is located appropriately, and local codes don't require a licensed plumber to do it. I'd suggest calling Home Depot or using the chat feature on their website to confirm. CodeTalker (talk) 05:50, 25 December 2023 (UTC)


 * Is it a drop-in, which HD doesn't do? "Basic hook up service does not include hook up or removal of built-in cooktops, wall ovens, drop-in appliances, range hoods and air conditioners." The thing about "Pro" services is that it seems to be just another expensive marketplace for odd jobs. 68.174.155.22 (talk) 23:47, 25 December 2023 (UTC)


 * What is a "drop-in" appliance? I've never seen the term before and can't readily find an explanation online.  This page from one major manufacturer refers to dishwashers only as "built-in" on the one hand, "portable" or "freestanding" on the other. --142.112.220.136 (talk) 14:16, 26 December 2023 (UTC)


 * Beats me. The term is used with ranges,  which may be installed flush with surrounding surface rather than beneath the counter.  Another drop-in range claims it may be used in "an island or peninsula." 68.174.155.22 (talk) 22:30, 26 December 2023 (UTC)
 * As used here, it is an appliance designed to hang from the countertop, without bottom support. --Lambiam 09:58, 27 December 2023 (UTC)


 * Home Depot/Lowes will do drop-in service and, depending on who is actually doing the install, they may handle the installation shown in the photo. That is not built-in. A built-in dishwasher looks like the cabinetry. In other words, if you don't know which door is the diswasher, you can to go down the line of cabinets and open each one until you find the dishwasher. The photo shows a gap in the cabinetry where the diswasher is dropped in. It will have water supply, drain access, and electrical connection. A total of three things to connect. That is the drop-in. You pull out the old unit, unplug the three connections, connect the new one, and push it into the hole. But, it isn't finished at that point. The new unit has to be attached to the underside of the counter to keep it from tilting out when the door is open. Also, there is usually a kick-plate fixed under the dishwasher to keep things from sliding under it. The reason that installers don't do that (usually) is because of two simple rasons. The counter might be marble or concrete or some other stone. They aren't going to take the responsibility of drilling holes into the underside of the counter to mount the dishwasher. The kickplate has to be custom fit. Floors are rarely even. So, you have to trim the kickplate to get it properly installed. If you slip up, you have to get a new plate and start over. But, what if you have a cheap particle board counter? They will likely be happy to drill holes and mount the top of the washer. What if you have flat concrete slab with something cheap like linoleum on top of it? They won't be overly concerned with making the kick board match up perfectly. So, they may be nice and do the complete installation. 97.82.165.112 (talk) 15:39, 27 December 2023 (UTC)