New Major Appliance Installation

Purpose

Define the standard install protocol for new residential major appliances delivered by retailers OR purchased by customers. Many retailers don't include install; many customers pay extra for the install service. Done well, this is high-margin work - + per appliance install on top of the customer's purchase.

Scope

Applies to:

• Refrigerator install (including water line + ice maker)
• Dishwasher install (built-in)
• Washer install (top-load OR front-load)
• Dryer install (gas OR electric)
• Range install (gas OR electric)
• Over-range microwave install

Excludes commercial appliances + new construction rough-in (separate scope).

Responsibilities

• Lead installer runs the protocol
• Assistant helps with handling appliances (most are 100 - 300 lb)
• Customer witnesses operation before signing off

Procedure - Common to All Appliances

1. Pre-install inspection with customer:

• Verify model + features match what was ordered
• Check for shipping damage (dings, dents, scratches)
• Photograph any damage BEFORE installing (customer's claim if needed)

1. Confirm utility connections available:

• Refrigerator: 120V outlet + (optional) water supply
• Dishwasher: 120V outlet + water supply + drain
• Washer: 120V (or 240V for some) + hot/cold water + drain
• Dryer: 120V (electric) OR 120V + gas (gas) + dryer vent
• Range: 120V (gas) OR 240V (electric)

1. Disconnect + remove existing appliance (if replacing):

• Photograph existing connections
• Cut utilities (gas valve OFF, water OFF, breaker OFF)
• Disconnect + remove appliance

1. Inspect connection points:

• Look for damage, corrosion, code violations
• Flag anything that needs upgrading before new install (quote separately)

Procedure - Refrigerator

1. Position appliance + level (most have adjustable feet)
2. Connect water line to ice maker (if applicable):

• Use stainless braided line; NOT plastic
• Connect to existing saddle valve OR upgrade to proper shutoff

1. Plug in
2. Allow 24 hours before initial use for refrigerant to settle
3. Test ice maker operation (may take 24+ hours for first batch)

Procedure - Dishwasher

1. Connect water supply (hot water line) with new braided supply line
2. Connect drain hose to disposal OR air gap (high loop required for safety)
3. Connect electrical (usually hardwired in newer units OR plug-in to dedicated outlet)
4. Level + secure to underside of countertop (anti-tip)
5. Test fill cycle, drain cycle, heat dry

Procedure - Washer + Dryer

1. Washer:

• Stainless braided supply lines (NOT old rubber)
• Drain hose with proper high loop
• Plug in; level the unit

1. Dryer:

• Gas: connect new flexible gas line; soapy water test for leaks
• Electric: verify 240V outlet + plug type match
• Connect dryer vent (METAL, not flex vinyl)
• Plug in

Procedure - Range

1. Position + level appliance
2. Gas: connect new flexible gas line; soapy water test
3. Electric: verify 240V outlet matches range cord type (3 or 4 prong)
4. Anti-tip bracket installation (required by code; secures range to wall)
5. Test all burners + oven heating

Procedure - Over-Range Microwave

1. Mount the support bracket to wall studs (required for weight)
2. Run electrical from above OR from below (depending on configuration)
3. Connect ductwork OR set to recirculating mode
4. Lift unit into place; engage bracket
5. Secure to upper cabinet with mounting screws
6. Test all functions including exhaust fan

Acceptance Criteria

• All appliances level + securely positioned
• All connections leak-free + secure
• All gas connections soap-tested
• Anti-tip brackets installed where required
• Operation verified for each function
• Customer demonstrates basic operation
• Field report includes photos + warranty info
• Pre-existing damage documented (if applicable)

References

• Manufacturer install instructions for each appliance
• IAPMO + NFPA codes for appliance installation