The Right Way to Measure a
Dishwasher Rough Opening
Learn about standard dishwasher openings so you come home with the right fit.
Is there a standard dishwasher
rough opening?
Yes. Most openings are 24'' wide, 34–36'' high and 24'' deep, which fits standard dishwasher dimensions of approximately the same size. If your desired dishwasher and current opening dimensions aren’t matching up, keep in mind:
Dishwasher widths and heights should be slightly smaller than opening dimensions but are often rounded up when listed in product specifications.
Dishwasher depths are usually listed including the depth of the door, which will make the complete depth slightly larger than the opening depth.
Most dishwashers come with adjustable feet if you need to add height.
Make sure the dishwasher is level even if the floor isn’t
Water may not drain properly if the dishwasher isn’t level. If the floor at the front of the opening is not level with floor at the back of the opening, you can adjust the front legs or place shims underneath them.
Opening dimensions for compact
and oversized dishwashers
Dishwashers designed for small or large spaces are usually the same height
and depth as a standard dishwasher with a smaller or larger width.
COMPACT
Width: 18 inches
Height: 34–36 inches
Depth: 24 inches
OVERSIZED
Width: 30–42 inches
Height: 34–36 inches
Depth: 24 inches
How to measure a dishwasher rough opening
Width (W) - Use measuring tape to measure from cabinet to cabinet. It’s better to leave a little breathing room on each side than have it be a tight fit.
Height (H) - Measure from the floor to the lowest point of the countertop.
Depth (D) - Measure from the back of the opening to the front of the cabinets. Keep in mind the dishwasher door will extend past the cabinets. Make sure there is at least 27 inches of open space in front of the dishwasher for loading and unloading.
More considerations when measuring
Corner locations need more clearance
Corner locations need at least 2 inches of space between the side of the dishwasher door (when open) and the wall or cabinet.
The motor should never touch the floor
Check for any obstructions that would cause the dishwasher motor to touch the floor of the opening, such as carpeting or loose, uneven tile. Find out where the motor is located in this guide to dishwasher parts.
Your home’s flooring may affect opening dimensions
Keep in mind that kitchen flooring may not have been installed under the dishwasher and could add more height to your opening. On the other hand, if your kitchen has two layers of flooring, you may have less height than a standard dishwasher opening.
MORE ESSENTIAL DISHWASHER INFO
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