The process of installing a dishwasher can sometimes be a complex one with many intricate steps, connections, and attachments.
Since there are so many required parts and extra attachments, it is crucial to know which ones are necessary and which ones are not in order to avoid being overwhelmed and confused by the whole process.
One of such attachments that often raises questions is a strain relief.
In this article, we’re going to explain all you need to know about whether a not a strain relief is necessary for your dishwasher and highlight to install it to get your dishwasher up and running
Do I Need A Strain Relief For My Dishwasher?
Yes, you need a strain relief for your dishwasher to secure the cord in place, increase the life of your dishwasher and protect the connections from water damage.
Most people often think this additional piece is something they can opt-out of installing in their dishwasher, but we’re going to explain in detail the reasons for using a strain relief.
What Is The Strain Relief On A Dishwasher?
A strain relief is an attachment for the electrical wires of the dishwasher that helps to relieve the stress on the power cord connection to prevent it from breakage or damage.
It also relieves the strain on the electrical connections inside the dishwasher.
It often comes in a variety of sizes depending on the size of the hole on your dishwasher junction box, so it is important to keep in mind that each dishwasher might require a separate strain relief.
The strain relief is also not included in the dishwasher installation kit, so you need to buy it separately to complete the installation.
3 Reasons Why You Need One
1- It Holds the Power Cord in Place
The power cord of the dishwasher usually comes unattached and has to be connected to the junction box during the installation process.
The strain relief is connected to the power cord and holds the connection securely in place to avoid the wires falling out or twisting out of place while using or moving around the machine.
2- It Helps the Dishwasher Last Longer
One of the main functions of a strain relief is that it protects the dishwasher from overexertion by absorbing the strains or pushes that may be around the wiring and power cord connections.
This helps the dishwasher stay protected from any possible damage to the wiring and ensures it lasts for a long time.
3- It Acts as a Water Protecting Seal for the Wiring Connection
With use over time, the likelihood of water running into the power cord connection area. When this happens it can damage the wiring and make the dishwasher stop working.
However, when a strain relief is attached, it covers the area housing the essential wiring connection and protects any excess moisture from getting absorbed through the wires
Do I Need A ⅞ ‘’ Strain Relief For My Dishwasher
While every dishwasher had a different sized hole in the junction box, the standard strain relief that most dishwashers typically need is the ⅞ ‘’ strain relief.
This is because the ⅞ ‘’ strain relief has the ideal diameter to fit into most brands of dishwashers. However, there are other sizes available such as the ¾’ , ½’’ , and ⅝’.
So when trying to install a strain relief on your dishwasher, it is important to either measure the diameter of the connection point in the junction box or read the manual to be sure of what size your machine requires.
How Do You Install Strain Relief On A Dishwasher?
To install the strain relief on your dishwasher it is important to follow the right steps and we’re going to explain just how to carry out this installation.
It is a fairly straightforward process and will have your machine up and running in no time.
Just follow the steps below
Steps to Install
Step 1: Flip the dishwasher on its back so you can access the faceplate.
Step 2: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws on the dishwasher faceplate.
Step 3: Remove the faceplate and the insulation attached to it. The junction box should be visible after doing this.
Step 4: Using a Torx screw, loosen the nut holding the junction box in place and remove the lid.
Step 5: Loosen up the screw around the strain relief to open up the hole in between. Also, loosen the round nut on the front end of the strain relief with your hand.
Step 6: Run the dishwasher power cord wires through the hole in the strain relief.
Step 7: Inside the junction box, there is a hole for the power cord to pass through. insert the dishwasher cord wires through the hole. Then, push the threaded portion of the strain relief through the hole.
Step 8: In the front end of the junction box, screw the round strain relief nut back onto the strain relief. This will secure the dishwasher power wires to the junction box.
Step 9: On the other side of the junction box where the back end of the strain relief appears. Using a screwdriver, tighten the screws on the strain relief so they hold the power cord tightly in place.
Step 10: Once the strain relief is securely in place, you can continue with the wiring process by connecting the power cord wires to the wires in the junction box.
Step 11: Arrange all the wires securely in the junction box and reattach the lid. Then tighten it down with the screw you removed earlier.
Step 12: Reattach the dishwasher insulation and the faceplate. Then reconnect the screws that hold it in place.
Conclusion
A strain relief is an essential attachment needed for the electrical wiring installation of your dishwasher.
Due it’s its protective function, it is a key feature that will help with the longevity and efficiency of your dishwasher. So it is best to have it installed.
We have explained the functions and importance of a strain relief in the dishwasher and we’ve also gone through the right steps to properly install it.
