Can a Portable Dishwasher Be Converted To a Built-In? [YES Or NO – Find Out Now] 

Originally Created on: April 11, 2023 @ 10:42 am

Who doesn’t love a portable dishwasher? But, Can a Portable Dishwasher Be Converted To a Built-In? The process of attaching and detaching the water line every time you want to use it can be a little bit annoying.

That’s why most people prefer to convert their portable dishwashers into built-in appliances. 

If you are wondering whether a portable dishwasher can be converted into a built-in, we have prepared an in-depth guide on everything you need to know.

We will start off by mentioning whether such a conversion is possible, how you can go about it, and list reasons why built-in dishwashers are a better choice. 

Also Read: Why Is My Portable Dishwasher Not Draining [4 Causes + SOLUTIONS]

Can a Portable Dishwasher Be Converted to a Built-In? 

It is possible to convert a portable into a built-in dishwasher. To accomplish this, you will need a portable dishwasher conversion kit. A couple of DIY skills are also required for this modification. 

There are two crucial factors you need to consider when converting a portable into a built-in dishwasher; 

•    You will need to ensure the portable dishwasher can snugly fit the available space in your kitchen. Grab a tape measure and confirm the dimensions. 
•    It’s vital to evaluate the cost of the conversion. Sometimes, the conversion may be more expensive than buying a permanent dishwasher. 

In a portable to built-in dishwasher conversion, a permanent power source has to be created. The easiest way to do so is by using the power source above the cabinet.

Also, a permanent water source has to be established. You can source hot water from your sink line or directly from the home’s hot water source.

The other thing that has to be modified is the installation of a drainage system. Look for the drain pipe running beneath the sink and attach it to your portable dishwasher. 

During this conversion, you also have to remove the wheels which are common in portable dishwashers. It’s imperative that you firmly secure the washer under your cabinet with screws. This minimizes movement. 

Before engaging in this modification, you must understand that not all portable dishwashers can be converted into built-ins.

Washers that can only be loaded from the top or those whose controls are mounted at the top can’t be permanently placed under a counter.

Such a conversion would be invasive, hectic, and time-consuming because you will need to cut one side of your dishwasher and transfer the controls. 

Portable Dishwasher Conversion Kit

To pull off such a conversion, as mentioned earlier, you are going to need a portable dishwasher conversion kit. This kit often contains essential items needed to modify your portable dishwasher into a built-in.

Examples of material you may find in such a kit include a power code, a hose, Teflon, wire connectors, a hose end adapter, and an electrical lock clamp amongst others. 

When looking for a portable dishwasher conversion kit, it’s advisable to get one from your manufacturer. This ensures you get compatible parts.

There are some kits that claim to be versatile. These should be your last option when you are unable to find a kit from your brand manufacturer. 

You should also know that some kits may not contain all the necessary gear like screws and brackets. You will need to buy these separately.

Whether you are the one performing the conversion, or you have hired an expert, it’s imperative that you list all the required materials before starting the project. This will guarantee a quick and efficient conversion. 

What is the Difference Between Portable Dishwasher and Built-In? 

Even though they both do the same job, portable dishwashers are quite different from built-in options. A built-in dishwasher is fitted permanently beneath your kitchen counter.

It’s connected to power, water sources, and drainage. It’s always there whenever you need it. 

Portable dishwashers on the other hand are freestanding appliances. As the name suggests, you can wheel them into the kitchen whenever you need them and connect them to a water hose.

Because of their design, portable dishwashers are smaller and more lightweight. They are ideal for smaller homes or people who live alone. 

There are many differences between portable dishwashers and built-in. The portable options are a bit cheaper than the built-in.

However, their functionality is limited to cleaning only a few dishes per cycle.

Built-in dishwashers consume a lot of space because of their size and you can’t move them around as is the case with portable dishwashers.

You should also keep in mind that portable dishwashers often use less water and energy than built-in dishwashers. 

Due to these differences, portable and built-in dishwashers appeal to varying groups of people. If you have a small kitchen and you don’t usually have lots of dirty dishes, a portable dishwasher is a better choice.

On the other hand, if you have a big family and prefer a dishwasher that is seamlessly integrated into your kitchen, go for the built-in. 

Here is a quick chart about the differences between portable and built-in dishwashers

Key Differences	Built In Dishwasher	Portable Dishwasher
Size	Big	Small
Noise Levels	Quieter	A bit noisy
Energy Efficiency	Uses a lot of electricity	It’s more efficient
Functionality	Can clean more dishes at once	Limited to a small fraction
Price	More expensive	It’s cheaper

       
What is the Benefit of a Built-In Dishwasher?

When you convert your portable dishwasher into a built-in, here are some of the perks you will enjoy; 

•    They are much easier to access. Because it’s located below your countertop, loading and off-loading it will be much simpler. 
•    It blends well with your kitchen design. A portable dishwasher doesn’t usually look so great when it’s standing alone in a corner. 
•    If you install it correctly, your built-in dishwasher is more silent than a portable one. the presence of cabinetry around it dampens any sound produced during washing. 
• Built-in dishwashers have more capacity than portable ones because they are bigger. 

You May Also Like: How To Fit a Countertop Dishwasher [+3 BEST Tips]

Conclusion 

We hope that our article has adequately answered your question – can a portable dishwasher be converted into a built-in?

From the above, it’s evident that the process is a bit technical. But it is possible. All you need is a portable dishwasher conversion kit and some plumbing and electrical skills.

In case the procedure seems hectic, you can always seek the services of an expert plumber.

Also, before you get started with this conversion, you need to evaluate whether the cost of the modifications is lower than that of buying a new built-in dishwasher.