When building in an appliance, make sure it can be removed easily for service. Flexible hookups for dishwashers and gas ranges can make repair jobs less labour intensive. Also, leave extra electric cable when installing electric wall ovens and cooktops. This will minimize the time the technician spends on the job and reduce the cost to you.
(Added: 14-Jul-1999)

If you will be tiling your kitchen floor, make sure you tile beneath the dishwasher or at least raise its flooring to the same height as the tiles. Once down, there may not be enough clearance to remove the dishwasher for servicing. The only alternative will be to lift the whole counter top off of the cupboards, a needless expense.
(Added: 14-Jul-1999)

If installing a wall oven below counter top level, be aware that small children could be exposed to a burn hazard. Not all wall ovens conform to the same temperature standards that regular ranges do. This is because some are designed to only be installed above counter height were a chance of getting a burn is somewhat reduced.
(Added: 14-Jul-1999)

When installing laundry equipment into closets, make sure water shut-offs can be reached easily. Also ensure the water hoses are long enough to remove the appliance when necessary. A floor drain may also be necessary should the water pump or motor fail. Have a look at the FloodSaver web page for an excellent accessory for this.
(Added: 14-Jul-1999)

Washing machines are designed to be used on solid flooring, like concrete. If installing on a wooden floor, extra joist bracing may be needed. The mounting of an additional plywood section can also strengthen an existing wooden floor. Severe internal suspension damage can occur if used on unstable flooring.
(Added: 14-Jul-1999)

Refrigerators with forced air condensers are the only kind that can be built in. Models with regular static condensers will not be able to dissipate the heat if used in this application. This will result in poor cooling efficiency and damage to the compressor. You can tell forced air models by the fan, located in the compressor compartment, used to circulate air through the condenser.
(Added: 14-Jul-1999)

Related Categories:

• Helpful Tips : Air Conditioner (9)
• Helpful Tips : Dishwasher (7)
• Helpful Tips : Disposal (1)
• Helpful Tips : Dryer (4)
• Helpful Tips : Freezer (3)
• Helpful Tips : Icemaker (3)
• Helpful Tips : Microwave (4)
• Helpful Tips : Range (6)
• Helpful Tips : Refrigerator (10)
• Helpful Tips : Washing Machine (6)