Install Appliances
Bring your kitchen and laundry to life. Learn how to coordinate delivery, properly install, and test all appliances from refrigerators and ranges to washers and specialty items in your whole home remodel.
Quick Summary
Typical Cost
$8,000 - $40,000+
Varies by brand and features
Time Frame
1-3 days
Plus delivery coordination
Difficulty
Moderate to Hard
Gas and built-ins need pros
Why Proper Appliance Installation Matters
Appliances represent one of the largest investments in your remodel, often ranging from $8,000 to $40,000 or more for a whole home. Proper installation protects this investment, ensures safe operation, and maintains manufacturer warranties that could save thousands in future repairs.
Poor installation can lead to serious problems: gas leaks from improper connections, water damage from leaking supply lines, inefficient operation from inadequate ventilation, and premature wear from improper leveling. These issues often don't manifest immediately but can cause significant damage over time.
Timing is also critical. Appliances delivered too early risk damage from ongoing construction. Delivered too late, they delay final inspections and move-in. Understanding the installation sequence and requirements for each appliance ensures your project finishes smoothly and on schedule.
Appliance Requirements by Type
| Appliance | Electrical | Plumbing | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Dedicated 15-20A, 120V | Water line for ice maker | 1-2" clearance sides/back |
| Electric Range | 50A, 240V circuit | None | Anti-tip bracket required |
| Gas Range | 15-20A, 120V for ignition | Gas line | Licensed install, anti-tip bracket |
| Wall Oven | 30-50A, 240V (varies) | None | Specific cabinet cutout, clearances |
| Dishwasher | Dedicated 20A, 120V | Hot water, drain line | Air gap or high loop drain |
| Range Hood | 15-20A, 120V | None | Ductwork or recirculating |
| Garbage Disposal | Dedicated 20A, 120V | Sink drain connection | Switched outlet under sink |
| Washer | Dedicated 20A, 120V | Hot/cold supply, drain | Drain pan recommended |
| Electric Dryer | 30A, 240V circuit | None | 4" exhaust duct to exterior |
Appliance Cost Ranges
| Appliance | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | $800 - $1,500 | $1,500 - $3,500 | $3,500 - $15,000+ |
| Range | $500 - $1,000 | $1,000 - $3,000 | $3,000 - $20,000+ |
| Dishwasher | $400 - $700 | $700 - $1,200 | $1,200 - $2,500+ |
| Range Hood | $150 - $400 | $400 - $1,000 | $1,000 - $5,000+ |
| Washer/Dryer Set | $800 - $1,400 | $1,400 - $2,500 | $2,500 - $5,000+ |
| Professional Install | $100 - $500 per appliance (gas appliances on higher end) | ||
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Verify Rough-In Locations
Before scheduling delivery, confirm all utility connections are properly positioned. Misplaced connections can prevent installation or require expensive modifications.
- Check electrical outlet positions against appliance specs
- Verify 240V circuits are correct amperage for your appliances
- Confirm water supply locations for refrigerator, dishwasher, washer
- Check gas line locations if using gas appliances
- Verify dryer exhaust duct route to exterior is complete
Schedule Delivery Windows
Coordinate appliance delivery with your project timeline. Most appliances should arrive after major construction is complete to prevent damage from dust, debris, and traffic.
- Built-in ovens may need early install before cabinets close in
- Refrigerator, range, and dishwasher after countertops are set
- Washer and dryer after laundry room painting is complete
- Allow 2-3 days between delivery and final inspection
- Confirm delivery path is clear and flooring is protected
Prepare Appliance Locations
Get each installation location ready before appliances arrive. Proper preparation prevents delays and ensures smooth installation.
- Clean cabinet openings of debris and construction dust
- Verify cabinet openings match appliance dimensions exactly
- Ensure flooring extends under appliance locations
- Test all electrical circuits and plumbing connections
- Have anti-tip brackets ready for range installation
Inspect Deliveries Carefully
Inspect every appliance before accepting delivery. Damage discovered after the delivery truck leaves becomes your responsibility to prove and is much harder to resolve.
- Check all boxes for visible damage before opening
- Photograph any dents, scratches, or damage immediately
- Test doors, drawers, and controls for proper operation
- Verify model numbers match your order
- Document issues on delivery paperwork before signing
Install Built-In Appliances
Built-in appliances like wall ovens and cooktops require careful installation with proper electrical connections and secure mounting.
- Verify cabinet cutout matches appliance specifications exactly
- Ensure required clearances from combustibles are maintained
- Make electrical connections per manufacturer instructions
- Secure mounting brackets firmly to cabinet structure
- Install any trim kits or filler pieces for proper fit
Connect Refrigerator
Refrigerator installation involves proper positioning, leveling, and water line connection if equipped with an ice maker or water dispenser.
- Leave space for adequate ventilation (check manual)
- Level refrigerator front-to-back and side-to-side
- Connect braided stainless water line (not plastic tubing)
- Run water through dispenser before making ice
- Allow 24 hours to reach proper temperature before stocking
Install Dishwasher
Dishwasher installation requires proper electrical, water, and drain connections, plus secure mounting to prevent movement during operation.
- Slide unit in carefully to avoid damaging flooring
- Connect hot water supply with braided stainless line
- Route drain line with high loop or through air gap
- Make electrical connection (hardwired or plug-in per code)
- Secure to countertop with mounting brackets
Connect Range or Cooktop
Range installation requires proper electrical or gas connections plus mandatory anti-tip bracket installation for safety.
- Install anti-tip bracket securely to floor or wall
- For gas: use flexible gas connector with shutoff valve
- For electric: connect to 240V outlet (3 or 4-prong per code)
- Verify range is level and stable
- Test all burners and oven heating elements
Install Ventilation
Range hoods must be properly mounted and connected to ductwork for effective ventilation, or configured for recirculating operation.
- Mount at recommended height above cooktop (usually 24-30")
- Secure firmly to wall studs or cabinet structure
- Connect ductwork with foil tape (no screws into duct)
- For recirculating: install charcoal filters
- Verify damper opens freely and closes when off
Test All Appliances
Run complete test cycles on all appliances before considering installation complete. Document any issues for warranty service or corrections.
- Run dishwasher through complete cycle, check for leaks
- Test all range burners and oven temperature accuracy
- Verify refrigerator reaches proper temperature
- Test washer and dryer through complete cycles
- Check all controls, lights, and displays function properly
Pro Tips
Buy During Sales Events
Major holidays (Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Black Friday) and model changeover periods (September-October) offer 20-40% savings on appliances. Order early in your project to take advantage of sales timing.
Consider Package Deals
Appliance packages (4-5 matching pieces) often cost less than buying individually and ensure consistent styling. Many retailers offer additional discounts for package purchases.
Save Manuals and Registration
Register warranties immediately and save all documentation. Take photos of model and serial number plates for easy reference. Store digital copies for quick access when needed.
Order Matching Trim Kits Early
Built-in refrigerators and wall ovens often need trim kits to finish installation properly. Order these with your appliances to avoid delays waiting for special-order parts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not verifying dimensions before cabinet installation
Appliance dimensions can vary significantly between models, even within the same brand. Measure your specific appliances and build cabinet openings to match, not to "standard" sizes.
Skipping the anti-tip bracket on ranges
Anti-tip brackets are required by code and prevent the range from tipping forward when weight is placed on open oven door. This is a serious safety issue that has caused deaths.
Using plastic water supply lines
Plastic ice maker supply lines are prone to cracking and leaking over time. Always use braided stainless steel water supply lines, which are more durable and less likely to fail.
Installing gas appliances yourself
Gas line connections require proper licensing in most areas and improper installation creates serious safety hazards. Always have a licensed professional handle gas connections.
Accepting delivery without inspection
Signing for delivery without inspecting appliances makes damage claims extremely difficult. Always inspect before signing, or note "received unchecked" on paperwork if delivery personnel won't wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should appliances be delivered during a remodel?
Schedule appliance delivery near the end of the project, after flooring, countertops, and cabinetry are complete but before final cleaning. Built-in appliances like wall ovens may need to be installed earlier. Store appliances in their boxes in a protected area until installation to prevent damage from ongoing work.
Should I have the store install appliances or hire someone separately?
Basic delivery and installation from retailers is often included or low-cost, but installers may not handle complex connections. For gas appliances, built-ins, or custom installations, hiring your contractor's team or a licensed professional ensures proper integration with your remodel. This is especially important for gas connections which typically require licensed plumbers.
How do I protect new appliances during ongoing construction?
Keep appliances in original packaging as long as possible. If installed before construction is complete, cover with moving blankets and cardboard. Tape plastic sheeting over openings to prevent dust infiltration. Don't remove protective films until final cleaning. For high-end appliances, consider scheduling delivery after all other work is complete.
What clearances do appliances need?
Refrigerators typically need 1-2 inches on sides and back, plus 1 inch on top for ventilation. Ranges need 0-6 inches on sides depending on type. Dishwashers need exact fit in cabinet opening. Wall ovens need specified clearances from combustibles. Always check manufacturer specifications - clearance requirements vary significantly between models and brands.
Do I need to upgrade electrical for new appliances?
Modern appliances often require different electrical connections than older models. Electric ranges typically need 50-amp 240V circuits. Electric dryers need 30-amp 240V circuits. Dishwashers and garbage disposals each need dedicated 20-amp circuits. Refrigerators should have dedicated 15-20 amp circuits. Verify requirements before delivery and have electrician make any needed upgrades.