Who Installs Dishwashers, Washing Machines and Range Hoods? Your Plumber. Here’s Why.

You bought a new dishwasher. The delivery driver brought it as far as your kitchen. So who connects it?

In Australia the answer is a licensed plumber — not the delivery driver, not the appliance retailer, and in most states not you either. Here’s what appliance installation actually involves, and why it’s licensed plumbing work.

Dishwasher installation

Installing a dishwasher means a hot water supply connection, a waste drain connection and an electrical connection. The water and drain work is licensed plumbing in every Australian state. A hardwired electrical connection needs a licensed electrician.

• A new hot water supply line and isolation valve
• A waste connection to the kitchen drain, at the correct height and gradient to prevent backflow
• An anti-siphon loop, so dirty water can’t flow back into the machine

Cost: $150–$280 for the plumbing component where the supply connections are accessible. More if a new supply line has to be run.

Washing machine installation

Connecting a washing machine needs hot and cold supply connections plus a waste drain. Those connections to the mains water supply require a licensed plumber. The hoses need checking too — most insurance policies require flexible hose connections to meet current standards.

Cost: $120–$220 where connections are accessible, including pressure testing of the hose connections.

Range hood installation – gas ducted

Range hoods that duct outside through the roof or a wall need a gas licence if they connect to a gas supply, and the ductwork penetration through the roof space has to be done carefully to keep weatherproofing and fire separation intact. Gas range hood connections must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter.

Cost: $200–$450 depending on ducting complexity and access.

FAQs about appliance installation

Can I install a dishwasher myself?

In NSW and QLD, connecting a dishwasher to the water supply is licensed plumbing work. The rules vary a little elsewhere, but a bad install carries real risk — flood damage from a failed hose connection, backflow contamination and voided insurance. Give us a call for a fast, affordable connection instead.

Do you supply the appliance or just install it?

We install appliances you’ve already bought. We can also recommend brands and supply certain products where we hold trade accounts — just ask when you call.

How long does dishwasher installation take?

A standard install with accessible connections under the kitchen sink takes 45–75 minutes. If a new supply valve is needed or the waste connection has to be modified, allow 90–120 minutes.