Converting a dishwasher from plug-in to hardwired involves removing the power cord and installing a direct electrical connection. Please note that electrical work should only be performed by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and compliance with local building codes. If you're not experienced with electrical work, it's best to hire a professional for this task. However, I can provide a general outline of the steps involved:
Important: Before proceeding, ensure the dishwasher is compatible with hardwiring. Not all dishwashers are designed to be hardwired, and attempting to do so on an incompatible model may damage the appliance and void the warranty. Check the dishwasher's manual or consult the manufacturer to confirm if it can be hardwired.
Turn off the Power: Locate the circuit breaker that controls the dishwasher's electrical circuit and turn it off to cut power to the dishwasher.
Remove the Plug: Unplug the dishwasher from the electrical outlet.
Access the Wiring: You'll need to access the dishwasher's wiring. This usually involves removing the front kickplate or accessing the electrical junction box at the base of the dishwasher.
Disconnect the Power Cord: Inside the dishwasher's junction box, you'll find the power cord connected to a terminal block or wire nuts. Carefully disconnect the wires from the terminal block or wire nuts.
Prepare the Wires: If the dishwasher has a power cord with a plug, it may have three wires: black (hot), white (neutral), and green or bare copper (ground). For hardwiring, you'll need to strip the ends of these wires to expose the copper strands.
Mount a Junction Box: If the dishwasher doesn't already have one, install an electrical junction box near the dishwasher's location. The junction box should be properly secured to a stud or another appropriate surface.
Connect the Wires: Run the power cord's wires through a strain relief connector on the dishwasher or junction box. Connect the black wire to the black or red wire from the junction box (hot), the white wire to the white wire (neutral), and the green/bare copper wire to the green/bare copper wire (ground). Use wire nuts or appropriate connectors and wrap them with electrical tape.
Secure the Wires: Tuck the wires inside the junction box and secure them with a cable clamp or strain relief connector.
Cover the Junction Box: Close the junction box cover and make sure it is secure.
Test the Connection: After ensuring all connections are secure, turn on the power at the circuit breaker and test the dishwasher to verify that it is working correctly.
Secure the Kickplate: If you removed the dishwasher's kickplate, reattach it securely.
Remember, working with electricity can be dangerous and is best left to professionals. A licensed electrician will ensure the dishwasher is safely and correctly hardwired, reducing the risk of electrical hazards and damage to the appliance.