A dishwasher costs $400 to $4,000, with a national average of $1,300. Costs increase if you need to remove an old dishwasher or upgrade your plumbing and electrical systems.
Dishwasher size and type significantly impact the price you’ll pay for a new unit.
Total dishwasher costs can range from $400 to $4,000 when factoring in installation and potentially delivery and old dishwasher removal.
Beyond the initial purchase, consider long-term costs such as operating expenses (water and electricity), maintenance, and the potential need for electrical or plumbing upgrades during installation.
Purchasing a dishwasher costs $1,300 on average, but this can range from $400 to $4,000. Factors influencing the cost include the dishwasher size, type, and special features. Other factors like installation, delivery, and the removal of your old dishwasher can drive up that cost.
Item | Average Cost |
---|---|
Dishwasher | $300–$3,500 |
Installation Costs | $100–$450 |
Total Cost | $400–$4,000 |
Your dishwasher installation cost depends primarily on two factors: the dishwasher itself plus the cost of professional installation. If you’re replacing an old dishwasher, your installation costs will be lower than if you were installing a dishwasher in your home for the first time.
Are you looking for a freestanding dishwasher to set up in the corner of your kitchen, or do you need a small countertop option for your studio apartment? The type of dishwasher that works best for your kitchen can influence the cost. Dishwashers are available in many different styles, giving you plenty of price ranges to choose from. Basic dishwasher options, which are the least expensive, may not have a timer function. High-end models have special features, like smart home connectivity, quick-dry settings, or specialized wash cycles for delicate items.
Your local dishwasher installation pro can tell you what kind of dishwasher would work best in the space you have.
Dishwasher Type | Description | Average Cost of Materials | Average Cost of Labor |
---|---|---|---|
Built-in | The most common type, installed under the countertop and plumbed into your water supply and drain. Offers various features and sizes. | $400–$1,700 | $150–$450 |
Integrated | A built-in dishwasher with a door panel that matches your kitchen cabinets for a seamless look. Can be more expensive than standard built-ins. | $600–$3,100 | $150–$450, plus paneling cost |
Portable | Stands on wheels and can be moved and connected to the kitchen sink for water supply and drainage. A good option for smaller spaces or rentals. | $650–$1,100 | $0 (no installation) |
Countertop | A compact unit that sits on your countertop and connects to the faucet. Ideal for very small spaces or single individuals. | $250–$500 | $0 (no installation) |
Drawer | Features one or two drawers instead of a traditional door. Offers flexibility for washing smaller loads and can be installed in different locations. | $750–$2,700 | $200–$600 |
When selecting a dishwasher, size plays a major role not only in determining how many dishes you can wash at once but also in influencing the overall cost. From compact countertop units ideal for small spaces to full-sized models designed for larger households, a dishwasher's physical dimensions and capacity often correlate with its price point.
Dishwasher Size Category | Approximate Width | Typical Place Settings |
---|---|---|
Compact/slimline | 18 inches | 8–10 |
Standard | 24 inches | 12–16 |
Oversized | 30-42 inches | 16+ |
Portable | 18-24 inches | 8–12 |
Countertop | 22 inches | 4–6 |
Drawer | 23 inches | 6–16 |
The brand of dishwasher you choose will play a factor in its overall cost. Things like brand reputation, available features, and brand quality all play a part in this, with premium brands having higher prices due to their history of reliability, advanced cleaning technologies, and sophisticated design elements. On the other hand, lesser-known or budget-focused brands may offer more affordable options, sometimes with fewer features or simpler construction. A dishwasher installation pro near you can provide a detailed quote that considers the specific brand and model you select, as well as any unique requirements for your kitchen setup.
Dishwasher Brand | Average Cost, Unit Only | Brand Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Frigidaire | $400–$1,200 | Entry-level to mid-range | Generally, a more budget-friendly option, offering basic cleaning functionality. May have fewer features compared to higher-end brands. |
Beko | $500–$1,200 | Entry-level to mid-range | A European brand known for its value and performance. Often includes energy-efficient features and quiet operation at a competitive price. |
GE | $450–$1,600 | Mid-range | Offers a broad range of dishwashers at various price points. Includes models with basic features to more advanced options. |
Whirlpool | $500–$1,300 | Mid-range | Offers a wide range of models with user-friendly features. Generally considered a dependable choice for everyday use. |
Maytag | $550–$1,400 | Mid-range | Generally known for reliability and performance. Includes powerful cleaning cycle options. |
Samsung | $600– $1,500 | Mid-range | Known for modern designs and innovative features, including flexible racks and smart capabilities. Offers a range of models at different price points. |
LG | $700–$1,900 | Mid-range | Provides a good balance of features and price. Often includes smart technology and innovative designs. |
KitchenAid | $800–$2,100 | Mid-range to high-end | Offers powerful cleaning, often with specialized cycles and durable construction. Known for their stylish designs and quiet operation. |
Bosch | $900–$2,000 | High-end | Known for quiet operation, excellent cleaning performance, and durability. Offers a range of models with various features and price points. |
Miele | $1,500–$3,500 | Luxury | German-engineered and often includes advanced features and sleek designs. Generally considered a top-tier, premium brand. |
Once you’ve picked out a dishwasher that fits your kitchen layout and needs, you may need to haul out the old dishwasher or update your plumbing setup for the new one. Here are some additional costs to familiarize yourself with when budgeting for the cost of a new dishwasher.
Professional dishwasher installation costs about $200 if you’re adding a standard dishwasher in a kitchen with existing space and plumbing connections for a dishwasher. You can hire an appliance specialist, or the company you purchased the dishwasher from may offer installation services ranging from around $150 to $450.
If you need to add wiring or plumbing to your kitchen for a new dishwasher, the price will be around $500 or more. To retrofit an older kitchen to accommodate a new dishwasher, you could spend $14,600 or more on kitchen renovation costs.
Your dishwasher purchase may come with free delivery if you spend over a certain amount of money on the appliance. If not, expect to spend at least $60 for delivery plus the cost of installation. If you have a large vehicle or can borrow a friend’s truck, you can save money on the cost of appliance delivery.
Out with the old, and in with the new. While some companies will offer to remove and haul away your old dishwasher for free with the purchase of the new appliance, you may spend about $120 to $150 to have a local appliance removal pro take out the old dishwasher. If it’s in good working condition and you just wanted to upgrade to a more robust model, you may be able to sell your older model to recoup some costs.
A new dishwasher comes with a lot of packaging. If you don’t feel like breaking down and recycling the boxes yourself, the delivery team or appliance specialist typically includes debris cleanup and disposal in the delivery or installation costs. If not, they may charge a small fee to take care of the packaging for you.
A dishwasher doesn’t just need water to operate—it also requires electricity. Depending on your kitchen setup, you may need an electrician to rewire it before installing the dishwasher. Hiring an electrician costs about $50 to $130 per hour. If your kitchen requires electrical upgrades, you may also need to pay the cost of building permits, usually between $10 and $500.
You may need a plumber’s expertise to connect the dishwasher to the home’s plumbing or install new drain lines or water connections. A plumber can also ensure the dishwasher is working properly, which will help prevent leaks or water damage in the kitchen. Hiring a plumber costs about $45 to $200 per hour.
Beyond the price of the unit itself and the basic installation fees, several additional costs can contribute to the final expense of getting a new dishwasher in your home. Being aware of these potential extra expenses will help you create a more accurate budget for your dishwasher replacement or new installation project.
The warranty on a dishwasher can significantly impact its long-term cost of ownership. A strong warranty, often offered by more reputable or premium brands, can save you money down the line by covering potential repairs or even replacements within a specified timeframe. While dishwashers with more comprehensive warranties might have a higher initial price tag, this upfront investment can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected and potentially costly repair bills. Conversely, budget-friendly dishwashers with shorter or limited warranties might seem appealing initially, but could expose you to greater financial risk if issues arise after the warranty period expires.
Beyond the initial purchase and installation, the long-term cost of a dishwasher in your home includes its ongoing operating expenses. These primarily involve the costs of water and electricity used during each wash cycle. More energy-efficient and water-saving models, often indicated by an Energy Star certification, can lead to significant savings on your utility bills over the dishwasher's lifespan. While these more efficient models might have a slightly higher upfront cost, their lower operating costs can make them a more economical choice in the long run.
Proper maintenance plays a crucial role in controlling the overall cost of owning a dishwasher.
Tips to keep your dishwasher working properly, like regular cleaning, wiping down the door seals, and occasionally running a dishwasher cleaner, can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs. While the cost of cleaning supplies is minimal, the time invested in regular upkeep can translate to significant savings by avoiding expensive service calls and extending the operational life of your appliance in your home.
Some dishwashers, like countertop or portable options, are easy to install, since they don’t require professional installation. Installing a dishwasher yourself means you’ll only pay for the cost of a new dishwasher, delivery fees if necessary, and any basic tools and supplies you don’t own. If you’re simply swapping out an existing dishwasher with a new one of the same type and connections, and you're comfortable with basic plumbing and electrical shut-off procedures, you can likely tackle this project in about three hours.
However, if you need any electrical or plumbing work to accommodate the dishwasher of your dreams, or if the new unit has different connection requirements than your old one, you must call a professional dishwasher installer. This ensures the job is done safely, without risking damage to your home's electrical or plumbing systems, which could lead to much costlier repairs down the line.
Sometimes, especially if the issue is relatively minor, it makes more sense to repair your existing dishwasher rather than shoulder the potentially significant costs of a new unit, delivery, and installation. The cost to repair a dishwasher is $200 on average, significantly less expensive than the cost to replace it. Some DIY dishwasher repair tips can hopefully make the job easier, but if you're new to DIY projects, call an appliance repair pro to ensure that the job gets done safely.
Overall, you’ll want to evaluate these factors when deciding whether to repair or replace your dishwasher:
Lifespan/Age: Consider the age of your current dishwasher. If it's nearing the end of its typical lifespan (usually around 7 to 10 years), even a seemingly minor repair might be a temporary fix, and more issues could arise soon, potentially costing you more in the long run. Newer dishwashers might be worth repairing.
Extent of Damage: Evaluate the severity and complexity of the problem. Is it a simple fix like a clogged drain or a faulty door latch, or is it a major component failure like a motor or control board issue? More extensive damage often warrants considering replacement. Consider the availability and cost of specific replacement parts for your model, as longer wait times or high part costs can tip the scale towards replacement.
Warranty: Check if your dishwasher is still under warranty. If it is, the repair costs might be covered, making repair the most logical and cost-effective option. Review the terms of your warranty carefully to understand what is covered and any potential service fees.
50% Rule: If a repair exceeds 50% of the total cost of replacing the item, then go with the replacement. Obtain a reliable quote for the repair, including parts and labor from a local appliance repair professional. Then, research the cost of a comparable new dishwasher (factoring in potential delivery and installation). If the repair estimate is more than half the replacement cost, investing in a new, more energy-efficient model might be the wiser financial decision in the long run.
Common Dishwasher Problems | When to Repair Dishwasher | When to Replace Dishwasher |
---|---|---|
Dishwasher not draining | Often repairable by cleaning the filter, clearing blockages in the hose or pump, or fixing a kinked hose. A faulty drain pump motor can also be replaced. These repairs are usually cost-effective. | If the drain pump motor is failing in an older dishwasher (8+ years), or if there are other significant issues concurrently, replacement might be more economical. |
Dishwasher leaking | Replacing the door gasket, tightening hose connections, cleaning the filter, using the correct detergent, or adjusting the drain line are often simple fixes. Replacing a faulty float switch or water inlet valve is also usually feasible. | If the leak is due to a cracked tub (especially in an older machine), significant rust damage, or if multiple other costly repairs are needed, replacement is generally recommended. |
Dishes not getting clean | Often resolved by adjusting loading techniques, using the correct amount and type of detergent, cleaning the filter and spray arms, selecting the right cycle, or fixing a minor issue with the dispenser. | If the spray arm motor is failing, there are issues with the internal water circulation that are not due to clogs, or if the electronic control board malfunctions are preventing proper cleaning cycles in an older unit, replacement might be needed. |
Dishwasher not starting | Checking and ensuring the door latches, resetting the circuit breaker, or replacing a blown fuse are often easy fixes. A faulty door latch can also be replaced. | If the electronic control board is malfunctioning in an older dishwasher, the cost of replacement can be significant, making overall replacement a more viable option. |
Dishwasher excessively noisy | Removing obstructions is a simple fix. Replacing spray arms or cleaning out debris from the pump area might also resolve the issue. | If the noise is due to failing pump bearings or a failing motor in an older unit, the cost of these repairs can be substantial, potentially warranting a replacement. |
You can expect your dishwasher to last 10 to 15 years, with regular deep cleanings and ongoing maintenance playing a significant role in reaching the higher end of that range, especially given the potential for hard water issues. Lower quality or older models, or those that haven't been well-maintained, may only last 7 to 9 years, and frequent repairs on an older unit nearing this timeframe might signal that replacement is a more cost-effective long-term solution for your home.
A dishwasher can help save you significant time when it comes to getting your dishes clean. It can also get your dishes more hygienically clean than washing by hand due to higher water temperatures and specialized detergents, effectively sanitizing them and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Compared to hand-washing, a dishwasher typically uses less water and energy to clean the same amount of dishes, making it a more resource-efficient option.
Some signs that your dishwasher is going out include:
The door no longer latches
Dishes are still dirty after a cycle
Dishes are cold after a cycle
Rust inside or outside the unit
Cracks inside the dishwasher tub
Water collecting at the bottom or outside the unit
If your dishwasher is not energy-efficient or is older than 10 years, you should also consider replacing it. Repairing an older model may be more expensive than replacing it with something newer and more energy- or water-efficient.
You should deep-clean your dishwasher every month for optimal performance. A simple scrub down using a homemade vinegar liquid solution is all you need, but don’t use cleaners that aren’t for dishwashers.
If your dishwasher needs repair, expect to spend between $50 and $100 or $100 to $200 per hour to hire a dishwasher repair technician to service your machine.
Treat hard water with water treatment tablets to keep your dishes from getting spotty in between washes. Drop one of these into your dishwasher monthly and run a basic cycle with the machine empty.
It might be time to buy a new dishwasher for your kitchen if you consistently notice a significant amount of water left over after a cycle, indicating potential drainage issues that are becoming persistent or costly to fix. Visible rust, especially on the interior tub or racks, suggests internal corrosion that will likely worsen over time and can compromise cleaning performance. Additionally, if your dishes are coming out excessively hot after the drying cycle, it could point to a malfunctioning heating element or thermostat, which can be an energy inefficiency and a potential safety concern, making replacement a feasible choice.