Tips For Installing Home Appliances

(HIT) - Have you ever bought an appliance, rushed home to install it—and discovered you needed to supply an essential piece to complete the hook-up?

"That’s certainly a disappointing experience," comment home economists from Whirlpool Corporation, "but in most instances, the missing component is not a standard part used for most installations. While a manufacturer can supply parts that meet most national installation requirements, those that vary from one locale or home to another usually aren’t included," they add.

Based on calls from appliance purchasers to the Whirlpool Consumer Assistance Center, here are some tips for installation parts that manufacturers typically rely on the user to supply.

In general, the consumer must supply all plumbing, wiring and gas lines to the installation position for a major home appliance. Installation instructions outline the utilities that are required for correct hook-up. Decorative accessories and optional kits available for some appliances may require the consumer to supply some parts or components, as outlined in installation instructions.

Installing Freestanding Appliances Like Electric Ranges and Dryers

Because homes have multiple designs for outlets for 220/240-volt appliances, manufacturers do not supply the power cord (commonly called a "pigtail") for freestanding electric ranges and dryers. If the new appliance replaces one now in place, you may want to use the power cord from the old model. If it’s frayed or had many years of use, purchase a new one with a plug design that matches the outlet.

Installing Built-In Appliances

Most built-in cooking appliances and dishwashers do not have power cords with plugs. These need to be connected directly to the house wiring, according to the appliance’s installation instructions and local wiring codes. Dishwashers are connected to the house plumbing for both hot water and drain. Although most dishwashers provide inlet and drain hoses, it’s a good idea to check with the dealer or read the store’s copy of installation instructions to see if you need to supply any hoses for a do-it-yourself installation.

A countertop microwave oven requires an optional kit to build it into a cabinet, suspend it beneath a cabinet or hang it on a wall. For proper operation of the oven and a secure installation, follow manufacturer’s kit instructions.

Room air conditioners. Most window and through-the-wall air conditioners have power cords and plugs in place. In addition, units designed for window installations typically have an accordion-like attachment that allows you to close any window space not filled by the air conditioner. Most units have no braces or supports for the appliance.

Some room air conditioner models are designed for through-the-wall installations. Manufacturers anticipate that the wall opening will be sized to fit the unit, so it has no accordion- type spacers. However, many manufacturers do offer optional kits with space closures for existing cut-outs larger than the air conditioner.

Because manufacturers know that installations for room air conditioners vary widely, and in many instances, the new unit replaces an old one, most of these appliances do not include any braces or supports. However, installation instructions provide detailed information on methods the consumer can use to support the air conditioner, when needed.

"In most instances, the basic components needed to install a major home appliance are packed with the product. It’s a good idea, however, to ask the dealer or call the manufacturer’s toll- free number to discuss non-standard parts that may be needed for you to install a product you’re thinking of buying," remind Whirlpool home economists.

Courtesy: Home Improvement News and Information Center