04 December

The Benefits of Professional Appliance Installation vs. DIY

Are you moving into a new home or planning to remodel your current place? If so, you’re probably thinking of getting new appliances. You might even be tempted to tackle the installation yourself… but you shouldn’t.

You might be thinking: “Can I install a dishwasher myself?” or “How hard is it to install washing machines?” The truth is that the installation of appliances—especially ones with plumbing and drain connections—isn’t as simple as the internet can make it seem.

So, if you’re debating washing machine drain hose installation or about to try hooking up your water heater yourself, stop and read this first!

5 Reasons to Hire a Professional

1. They Have the Right Tools and Expertise

Appliance installation often requires more than just a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench. For example, washing machine installation also calls for the right tools for cutting, drilling, soldering, and sealing pipes and hoses.

Plumbing-related appliance installation also requires the installer to have the skills and knowledge to handle different piping systems, such as copper, PVC, or PEX. Even if you have the tools, you likely won’t have the same expertise.

2. Time and Convenience

The installation of household appliances can take several hours, especially if you have to remove the old machine or modify the plumbing or electrical system.

Whether it’s washing machine installation or getting your new dishwasher set up, a licensed plumber will save you the hassle and frustration of DIY. The last thing you want is to be without an appliance you need for longer than necessary!

3. Regulatory Compliance

Professionals know the local building codes and regulations that govern plumbing installations. Hiring one will ensure your appliance installations meet these standards while helping you avoid safety hazards, failed inspections, and legal issues.

While you may not be concerned about these now, consider what might happen if some day you decide to rent out your property or sell it—you don’t want your DIY installation to come back and create problems for you down the road!

4. Safety Considerations

Installing appliances often involves working with water, gas, or other potentially hazardous materials. While you may feel comfortable fiddling with inlet valves or a drain hose, you should be aware of what can happen if things go wrong.

Improper washing machine drain hose installation is a surefire way to get leaks that severely damage your property. Meanwhile, making mistakes with your water heater can lead to explosions or gas leaks that do life-threatening damage.

5. They Won’t Void Your Warranty

When it comes to appliance installation, many manufacturers require professional installation for extended warranty validity. It’s not uncommon for warranties to be voided if appliances are self-installed.

While you might want to save money now by installing your appliance yourself, you could end up costing yourself way more later when it inevitably needs to be repaired. That new washing machine was pricey—protect your investment!

Types of Appliances You Should Have Professionally Installed

Now that you know the benefits of hiring a professional for the installation of appliances, here are a few that you should always let them handle:

Dishwashers

Installing a new washer for your dishes requires connecting the hot and cold water supply valves with the water supply hose. It also involves connecting the drain hoses and all the electrical parts. Trust a professional here, as they will ensure proper connections and drain pipe extensions to prevent leaks and ensure your dishwasher doesn’t clog.

Water Heaters

Installing a hot water heater involves connecting both water supply hoses and gas lines, which requires precision to ensure proper venting and compliance with safety regulations. Whether you have a traditional tank-style or tankless unit, leave it to a pro.

Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposal units are typically connected to the kitchen sink’s plumbing system. Professional plumbers will ensure proper alignment to prevent frustrating issues such as clogged drains and leaks. They will also make sure the garbage disposal is connected to the sink’s shutoff valves for safety purposes.

Washing Machines

A new washing machine installation involves connecting water supply lines, the drain line—which includes the washer drain hose and drain pipe—and sometimes complex electrical connections. When you have a professional install a washing machine, they’ll also ensure the floor drain is placed appropriately and has a p-trap.

PlumbWize Makes Appliance Installation Easy

DIY appliance installation can seem appealing, but it’s a choice that often has serious consequences. You’re better off calling a professional plumber like us.

The PlumbWize team has over 60 years of home plumbing experience. Whether you need washing machine installation or are looking to get a new dishwasher hooked up in your kitchen, rest assured that we’ve got you covered!

Get in touch with us today to request a quote.

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