Install Your Kitchen Appliances
Your kitchen is about to come alive. Installing appliances is the step where your renovation transforms from a construction site into an actual, functioning kitchen. There's something deeply satisfying about sliding that new range into place or hearing the refrigerator hum for the first time.
Quick Summary
Time needed
4-6 hours
Difficulty
Moderate
Helper needed?
Highly recommended
Before You Begin
Installing appliances is physically demanding and requires careful attention to detail. Most appliances are heavy and awkward to move, so having a helper makes the job safer and faster.
Critical Safety Note: Turn off power at the circuit breaker before connecting hardwired appliances. For gas appliances, if you smell gas at any point, stop immediately, open windows, don't use any electrical switches, and call your gas company.
What You'll Need:
- •Appliance dolly or hand truck
- •4-foot level
- •Adjustable wrench
- •Screwdriver set
- •Drill with bits
- •Tape measure
- •Cardboard or moving blankets
- •Flashlight or headlamp
Recommended Installation Order
Install appliances in this order to give yourself the most working room and avoid having to move appliances twice:
- 1
Refrigerator first
Easiest to position while you have room to maneuver
- 2
Range or cooktop
Needs to be level and secured with anti-tip bracket
- 3
Dishwasher
Slides into cabinet space between other appliances
- 4
Over-range microwave
Last because it goes above the range
Detailed Installation Steps
Installing the Refrigerator
The refrigerator is usually the largest appliance and benefits from being installed first while you have space to work.
- •Remove all packaging, tape, and protective films
- •If built-in or counter-depth, verify the rough-in dimensions match
- •Position cardboard on the floor to protect your new flooring while sliding
- •Slide into position, leaving a few inches of space to work behind it
- •Level side-to-side first, then front-to-back using the adjustable front legs
- •For ice maker/water dispenser, connect the water line to the shutoff valve
- •Plug in the refrigerator
- •Push back into final position, leaving recommended clearance for ventilation
- •Adjust door alignment if needed using the hinge screws
Pro Tip: Refrigerators should have a slight tilt backward (higher in front) so doors close on their own. This also helps with drainage. About 1/4 inch higher in front is perfect.
Installing the Range or Cooktop
Range installation differs significantly between gas and electric. Both require careful leveling for proper cooking performance.
For Gas Ranges:
- 1.Install the gas connector line (flexible or rigid depending on local code)
- 2.Apply pipe dope or Teflon tape to threaded connections
- 3.Connect to the gas shutoff valve and the range
- 4.Turn on gas and test for leaks with soapy water (bubbles = leak)
- 5.Plug in electrical cord for the igniter and oven controls
- 6.Carefully slide range into position
For Electric Ranges:
- 1.Verify the outlet is 240V and matches your range plug configuration
- 2.Attach the power cord to the range if not pre-installed
- 3.Carefully position range near the outlet
- 4.Have a helper hold the range while you plug it in (the cord is short and stiff)
- 5.Slide into final position
- •Level the range side-to-side first, then front-to-back
- •Install the anti-tip bracket per manufacturer instructions (critical safety feature)
- •Slide the range back so the rear leg catches under the anti-tip bracket
- •Test that you can't tip the range by pulling forward on an open oven door
Safety Critical: The anti-tip bracket prevents the range from tipping forward if someone leans on the open oven door. This has prevented countless injuries, especially to children. Never skip installing it.
Installing the Dishwasher
Dishwashers slide into a cabinet opening and require water supply, drain, and electrical connections.
- •Remove the toe kick panel from the dishwasher to access connections
- •Carefully slide the dishwasher into the cabinet opening
- •Level side-to-side by adjusting the front legs
- •Connect the hot water supply line (usually under the sink)
- •Attach the drain hose to the disposal inlet or sink drain with hose clamp
- •Make sure drain hose has a high loop or air gap to prevent backflow
- •Connect electrical (hardwired or plug-in depending on model)
- •Secure dishwasher to underside of countertop with mounting brackets
- •Reinstall the toe kick panel
Pro Tip: The dishwasher needs to be perfectly level side-to-side or it won't drain properly and can leave water in the bottom. Use a level on the top rack rails to check.
Installing Over-Range Microwave
Over-range microwaves mount to the wall and cabinet above, and include a vent fan. This is a two-person job.
- •Install the mounting bracket to the wall per template (find studs!)
- •Drill holes in the cabinet above for electrical cord and vent duct
- •With a helper, lift the microwave and rest the back on the mounting bracket
- •Pull power cord through the cabinet hole
- •Attach vent adapter (recirculating or external vent)
- •Push microwave back and up to engage mounting bracket
- •Secure to cabinet above with mounting bolts through the top
- •Plug into receptacle in cabinet above
Important: These microwaves are heavy and awkward. You absolutely need a helper to support the front while you work on securing it. Don't attempt this alone.
Testing All Appliances
Before you call it done, run each appliance through a test cycle. This is your chance to catch issues while you still have easy access to connections.
Refrigerator Test:
- • Confirm it's running and cooling
- • Test ice maker and water dispenser if equipped
- • Check for unusual noises
- • Verify doors close properly and seal well (paper test)
Range Test:
- • Turn on each burner and verify ignition/heating
- • Test oven by setting to 350°F and checking it heats
- • If gas, verify no gas smell at connections
- • Test oven light and controls
Dishwasher Test:
- • Run a short cycle to test all functions
- • Check for leaks during fill and drain cycles
- • Verify spray arms spin freely
- • Confirm it drains completely
Microwave Test:
- • Heat a cup of water for 1 minute
- • Test the vent fan on all speeds
- • Check the cooktop light
- • Verify door closes and latches properly
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need professional help to install kitchen appliances?
Most appliances can be installed DIY if the rough-ins (electrical, gas, water) are already in place. Plugging in a refrigerator or electric range is straightforward. However, you should hire professionals for: gas line connections (required by code in many areas), hardwiring 240V appliances, running new electrical circuits, or installing range hoods that require ductwork modifications.
How do I level appliances on an uneven floor?
All major appliances have adjustable feet or leveling legs. For refrigerators and dishwashers, use a 4-foot level placed on top and adjust the front legs by turning them (usually counterclockwise to raise). Most ranges have rear wheels and adjustable front legs. Level side-to-side first, then front-to-back. A properly leveled appliance operates more efficiently and quietly.
What's the anti-tip bracket for ranges and why is it important?
The anti-tip bracket is a metal bracket that attaches to the floor or wall behind the range, preventing it from tipping forward if someone leans on the open oven door. This is a critical safety feature, especially in homes with children. Installation is usually simple—screw the bracket to the wall or floor, then slide the range leg under it. Don't skip this step.
How much clearance do I need around appliances?
Check your appliance manual for specific requirements, but general guidelines: refrigerators need 1 inch on sides and top for ventilation, ranges typically fit between cabinets with minimal gaps (fill large gaps with trim), dishwashers need exact height clearance under countertop, and microwaves over ranges need specific height above cooktop per manufacturer specs (usually 13-16 inches). Measure twice before sliding appliances into tight spaces.
Ready for the Next Step?
With appliances installed, it's time to add light fixtures to illuminate your beautiful new kitchen.