HOW TO LEVEL A DISHWASHER FOR PEAK PERFORMANCE
A dishwasher is a helpful appliance to have in the home, but in order to achieve optimal performance, it needs to be level. A level dishwasher helps to support proper cleaning and may be less likely to suffer from leaks, noise and other potential issues.
Keep reading to better understand how to level your dishwasher in a few steps and for practical tips to help care for your appliance.
DOES A DISHWASHER NEED TO BE LEVEL?
Dishwashers typically need to be level to clean properly and avoid leaks. If your dishwasher isn’t level, it can lead to draining issues, standing water inside the tub or unwanted noises. If you’re experiencing any of these, you might want to check if your dishwasher is level.
WHAT HAPPENS IF A DISHWASHER IS NOT LEVEL?
If your dishwasher is unlevel, it can impact your appliance’s performance. Draining issues, standing water and leaks, along with unwanted vibration and noise, are a few issues that can arise if your dishwasher isn’t level.
If your dishwasher isn’t level, it's possible the dishwasher was installed incorrectly or on an uneven floor; however, there are a few simple steps you can follow to level it.
HOW TO LEVEL A DISHWASHER, STEP-BY-STEP
When leveling a built-in dishwasher, begin by identifying the two leveling legs that can adjust easily using a few common tools:
Hex head socket or adjustable wrench
Standard level
Phillips-head screwdriver
(if dishwasher already installed)
Whether you’re installing a new dishwasher or leveling one that’s already been installed, these simple steps below will help you get started. Always be sure to check your dishwasher’s use and care guide for model-specific information.
1. DISCONNECT POWER AND PREP THE APPLIANCE
Use the circuit breaker to disconnect power from the appliance. If your dishwasher has already been installed, use the screwdriver to remove the toe kick and/or access panel located at the bottom of the dishwasher, below the door.
Learn more about dishwasher parts and where they are located.
2. CHECK THAT THE DISHWASHER IS LEVEL FROM FRONT TO BACK
Place a level vertically against the front panel of the closed dishwasher to gauge if it’s leaning forward or backward.
3. ADJUST FRONT OR BACK LEGS IF NEEDED
If the dishwasher wasn’t level front to back, you’ll need to adjust either the front or back leveling legs. Firmly pushing or pulling against the top of the dishwasher can take some weight off the leveling legs, making them easier to adjust.
Here are some tips for adjusting dishwasher legs:
To raise the dishwasher, turn the legs counterclockwise; to lower it, turn them clockwise.
You can use your hands but it may be easier with a hex head socket or adjustable wrench.
Some models have screws beneath the toe kick that let you adjust the back legs from the front, while others may be accessible by reaching underneath the appliance. Check your owner’s manual for more details and instructions.
ASK SOMEONE TO SIZE UP YOUR WORK
If possible, have someone watch the level as you adjust the dishwasher leveling legs. Since you’ll have your hands full, a second set of eyes could help cut out time spent on trial and error.
4. LEVEL THE DISHWASHER SIDE-TO-SIDE
Open the dishwasher and place the level along the front top edge. If it’s unlevel, adjust the right or left legs as needed by turning the legs counterclockwise to raise the dishwasher and clockwise to lower it.
5. CHECK TO SEE IF YOUR DISHWASHER IS LEVEL
Use a level to check the front-to-back and side-to-side alignment. If it still isn't level, continue to adjust the legs and check your work with your level until the job is done.
Make sure the dishwasher is centered in the cutout so there’s equal space on both sides, and that the door doesn’t hit the counter when you open it. Learn more about finding the right fit with this dishwasher dimensions guide.
Reattach any pieces you removed and restore power to the appliance.
TIPS FOR LEVELING A DISHWASHER
It’s important to refer to your dishwasher’s owner’s manual for any specific instructions on how to level your dishwasher; however, these tips can help streamline the process:
After you level your dishwasher, run a test cycle to ensure it’s working properly.
You can use the wood runners from the dishwasher’s original packaging as shims for a proper fit.
After installing your dishwasher, use the two-piece toe panel and adjust the back panel to account for any unevenness in the floor.
Adjust the rear legs of the dishwasher first, since it may be hard to reach them once you slide the appliance into the cutout.
SHOP MAYTAG® DISHWASHERS
Maytag® dishwashers offer features you can depend on to bring the power, load after load. Select models feature the PowerBlast® cycle, which scours away stubborn foods like egg yolk, peanut butter and even dried-on oatmeal. High-pressure jets, increased water temperatures and hot steam work together to clear food off dishes—so all you have to do is load them in. Shop all Maytag® dishwashers to find the model that suits you best.
