Install Kitchen Appliances
The exciting moment when your kitchen comes to life. Installing appliances in the right order, testing all functions, and registering warranties ensures everything works properly and stays protected. Here's how to complete this final major step.
Quick Summary
4-8 hours
$0-$500
Medium
Required
Recommended Installation Order
Install appliances in this order to ensure proper access for connections and avoid moving heavy items multiple times. Your contractor may adjust based on your specific layout.
Range Hood
Easiest access before range is in place. Connect ductwork and electrical.
Dishwasher
Install before range blocks access. Connect water, drain, and electrical.
Range / Cooktop / Wall Oven
Gas requires licensed pro. Install anti-tip bracket (required by code).
Microwave
If built-in or over-range. Mount securely, connect electrical.
Refrigerator
Largest item, install last. Connect water for ice maker. Level carefully.
Important Safety Notes
Gas appliances: Always have a licensed professional connect gas lines. Gas leaks are dangerous and potentially fatal. Connections must be tested with leak detection solution and proper flexible connectors used.
Anti-tip brackets: All freestanding ranges MUST have anti-tip brackets installed. These prevent the range from tipping if weight is placed on an open oven door. This is a code requirement and a critical safety feature.
Electrical: Ensure circuits are properly sized. Most ranges require 240V/50A circuits. Dishwashers and disposals are typically 120V/15-20A. Never overload circuits or use extension cords for major appliances.
Appliance Installation Details
Dishwasher Installation
Connections Needed:
- • Hot water supply (3/8" compression)
- • Drain to disposal or air gap
- • Electrical (120V outlet or hardwired)
Installation Steps:
- 1. Connect supply line and drain before sliding in
- 2. Slide into place, feed lines through
- 3. Level with adjustable feet
- 4. Secure to underside of countertop
- 5. Test for leaks
Height tip: If dishwasher doesn't fit under countertop, adjust feet to minimum height. If still too tall, check if legs can be removed or if countertop is at standard 36" height.
Range/Oven Installation
For Gas Ranges:
- • Licensed professional required
- • Flexible gas connector (new, not reused)
- • Shut-off valve accessible
- • Leak test with soapy water
For Electric Ranges:
- • 240V/50A dedicated circuit
- • Proper outlet type (4-prong for newer homes)
- • DIY-friendly for plug-in units
- • Electrician for hardwired installations
Critical: Install anti-tip bracket before sliding range into place. Bracket screws into floor or wall and the range's rear leg hooks over it. This prevents tipping if weight is placed on open oven door.
Refrigerator Installation
Connections Needed:
- • Standard 120V outlet
- • Water line for ice maker (1/4" copper or braided)
- • Adequate clearance for doors and ventilation
Installation Tips:
- • Remove packaging inside and out
- • Level front-to-back and side-to-side
- • Leave 1" clearance on all sides
- • Wait 24 hours before loading food
Water line: Use braided stainless steel, not plastic tubing. Plastic fails over time, causing major water damage. Connect at saddle valve (or proper compression fitting) and check for leaks.
Range Hood Installation
Height Guidelines:
- • 24-30" above electric cooktop
- • 30-36" above gas cooktop
- • Higher if cook is tall (maintain usability)
Installation Steps:
- • Mark mounting holes level
- • Secure mounting bracket or direct mount
- • Connect ductwork (exterior vent ideal)
- • Connect electrical
- • Test all fan speeds and lights
CFM tip: Match hood CFM to cooktop BTUs. General rule: 1 CFM per 100 BTU. Hoods over 400 CFM may require makeup air system in newer, tight homes.
Test All Functions
Before considering the project complete, test every appliance thoroughly. It's much easier to address issues now than after you've started using the kitchen.
Dishwasher Test
- • Run complete wash cycle (empty)
- • Check for leaks at connections
- • Verify water fills and drains properly
- • Test all wash cycle options
- • Confirm door latches securely
- • Check rinse aid and detergent dispensers
Range/Oven Test
- • All burners ignite and adjust
- • Oven heats to set temperature
- • Oven light and fan work
- • Broiler functions
- • Timer and controls operate
- • Anti-tip bracket is engaged
Refrigerator Test (after 24 hours)
- • Both compartments reach target temp
- • Ice maker produces ice
- • Water dispenser works (if equipped)
- • Doors seal properly (paper test)
- • Interior lights function
- • No unusual noises
Range Hood Test
- • All fan speeds operate
- • Lights work at all settings
- • Air actually vents outside (feel at cap)
- • No excessive vibration or noise
Warranty Registration
Register All Appliances
Take 15 minutes now to register warranties online. This ensures warranty coverage and gets you notified of any safety recalls. Most manufacturers offer registration on their website.
Find model and serial numbers - Usually on a sticker inside the door, back of unit, or in the manual
Visit manufacturer's website - Search "[brand] warranty registration" or find link in manual
Keep records organized - Store receipts, manuals, and warranty cards in one folder (digital or physical)
Note warranty expiration dates - Most are 1-2 years for labor, longer for major components
Information to Record:
- • Brand and model number
- • Serial number
- • Purchase date and price
- • Retailer name and receipt
- • Warranty registration confirmation
- • Customer service phone number
Frequently Asked Questions
What order should kitchen appliances be installed?
Recommended order: 1) Range hood, 2) Dishwasher, 3) Range/cooktop/wall oven, 4) Microwave (if built-in), 5) Refrigerator. This ensures adequate access for each installation before larger items block the way.
Do I need a professional to install kitchen appliances?
Gas appliances require a licensed professional - gas connections are dangerous if done incorrectly. Electric dishwashers and refrigerators are typically DIY-friendly. Hardwired appliances like wall ovens require an electrician. Many retailers offer installation with purchase.
Why is my new refrigerator not cold?
New refrigerators take 24-48 hours to reach proper temperature. Set recommended temperatures (37F fridge, 0F freezer) and wait 24 hours before loading food. If still not cold, check that it's level, vents aren't blocked, and door seals properly.
How do I register my appliance warranty?
Visit the manufacturer's website and search for warranty registration. You'll need model and serial numbers (found on sticker inside door or back of unit). Keep purchase receipts as proof of date. Create a folder with all appliance documentation.