While a dishwasher can be either directly wired or particularly connected with a power cord based on its manufacturing design, you must notify the method of powering it.
In this case, if your dishwasher is designed for a power cord, you have to purchase a power cord separately because it is not provided with a dishwasher.
Since a dishwasher is one of the most-used appliances in a home, you must choose an efficient power cord to connect it with the dishwasher and electric outlets. Power cords have different aspects and specifications that should carefully be noticed while choosing.
In this respect, I’m here going to illustrate some fundamental matters about a dishwasher power cord that may help you in several ways. Hence, keep going on.
Content Outline
Do dishwashers come with power cords?
Nope, dishwashers are not embellished with power cords. Basically, they do not include any kind of electrical connection.
Instead, they have dishes or wires in a box on the front connected to the base cabinet with a Romex cable. Then, you have to connect it to the Powerbox to get turned on.
On the other hand, you can connect your dishwasher with a power cord if it contains a standard socket or electrical outlets under the sink. In this case, you should connect, firstly, the dishwasher with the power cord and then with the electric outlets.
And keep in mind that you must purchase the power cord additionally because no brand provides it with their dishwashers.
Do all dishwashers have electrical plugs?
All dishwashers may be either cord and plug or hardwired. So, many dishwashers are designed with the directly-wired connection system and many with the system of the plug.
To know your dishwasher’s system, you have to just check it by looking around and observing it and find out the system. If you don’t find any way of plugging it with the power, be sure that it is directly wired.
On the contrary, if you notice a receptacle under the sink, learn that it has a cord-and-plug connection system. In particular, a dishwasher needs more than 100-volt power along with a 15-20-amp circuit to run properly.
What kind of plug does a dishwasher use?
A dishwasher must need an effective plug to run moderately. In general, it requires a power volt being more than 100 volts that can be fairly 120-volt and the circuit may range from 15 to 20 amps three-prong cord.
A normal dishwasher can be run with an ordinary power volt having 110-volts and 15 amps. In this case, it is wonderful to have a Ground Fault Interrupter or GFI made to disconnect power to prevent electrocution that can provide an extra precaution if the outlet gets wet.
However, most of the recent innovations are designed with a 125V NEMA 5-15R power volt supplied by 20 amps.
Can you use any power cord or do you need a special plug for the dishwasher?
As I’m saying, dishwashers may be either automatically wired or cord-and-plugged. Therefore, some dishwashers are designed with a direct connection to the mains so that you don’t have to provide it with power with a piece of additional equipment.
On the other hand, many of them are made with a plug-in system. In this case, you have to use an extra power cord to connect it with electricity.
So, you have to need a special plug and receptacle to be connected with an outlet under the sink. This special power cord should be more than 100-volts and 15-20 amps three-wire circuits.
Are dishwasher power cords universal?
No, the power cords of dishwashers are not universal. Since the requirements of a power cord are not interchangeable, no dishwasher can run on the other brand’s power cord.
That is why you must use a power cord with a certain dishwasher that you own and can not use another brand’s dishwasher. But it also should be noticed that some recent and new power cords of prominent brands are designed with a universal slot so that an individual power cord can be used by another brand’s dishwashers.
Size guide for the power cords
If you are going to buy a power cord, it is very important to know the sizes and extensions of the cord according to your needs. If you fail to select the right one, it will be troublesome for you to maintain it properly.
The two most essential things before purchasing a power cord are its wire gauge thickness and cord length. Its electrical wire gauge is measured by an American rating called AWG (American Wire Gauge). The capacity of the cord will be higher if the AWG is lower.
Besides, the cord length should be short to get more power because a long cord has to travel more to provide power. So, a perfect-sized power cord is a must for you.
For example, if your dishwasher needs a 15 amp power cord, you must buy this one, not the 20 amps one.
Now, there is a chart providing the sizes guide
| Extension | length | Input current | Voltage |
| 25-50 | 10 to 12 gauge | 20A | 2.58% to 3.33% |
| 25-50 | 14 to 16 gauge | 10A to 15A | 1.29% to 3.88% |
| 100 | 10 gauge | 16A to 20A | 4% |
| 100 | 12 to 16 gauge | 1A to 15A | 3.33% to 5% |
| 150 | 14 gauge | 1A to 7A | – |
What is the quality of the dishwasher’s power cord?
A power cord of the dishwasher is manufactured with high-end materials that ensure the utmost quality. The product has to go through several processes before manufacturing.
Most of them are factory certified and time tested for which they are efficient enough to provide the best service. They are wonderfully designed to fit the appliance accurately.
Moreover, they are enduring and can last for a long time incessantly. Thus, it can be said that power cords are made with the best quality capable of providing satisfactory performance.
What kind of power cord is best for the dishwasher?
As a heavy-duty appliance of your kitchen, your dishwasher must need a potential and efficient power cord to run positively. But getting and buying a power cord is not as easy as it sounds.
In this case, you must know some basic concepts before purchasing a power cord. First of all, you have to choose the right voltage that may range between 110 to 240-volts.
According to the capacity and demand of your dishwasher, you should select the right one. Then, amps is another fundamental part to consider.
If your voltage is 120-V, you should consider a 15-to-20-amps circuit while a 30-amps circuit is required for a 240 power volt. And another significant fact is choosing the right length that will be good for your dishwasher.
It is practically recommended to have a 12-gauge wire.
4 best quality dishwasher power cords
There are so many dishwasher power cords in the market brought out by different brands throughout the world. Among them, now 4 best quality power cords are enlisted to be discussed briefly.
Here they are.
Whirlpool Dishwasher power cord
The first one is an outcome of Whirlpool, a world-famous brand for household and kitchen appliances and electric machines.
This particular power one, the W10278923RP 3-Prong Dishwasher Power Supply Kit, is a potential and useful component that is made from high-end materials and designed with certain specifications.
Most significantly, this one is a universal kit capable of being connected with many other brands’ dishwashers. Therefore, in terms of price, it costs more than $12.
General electric universal dishwasher power cord
An innovation of General Electric, the WX09X70910 Universal Dishwasher Power Cord is another excellent and effective one that comes with fundamental features.
It has included a precise size and length appropriate for so many dishwashers. It contains a cord clamp in order to relieve strain on terminals, 13-amps, and three-slots.
Regarding cost, it is accessible at a little more than $8.
Eastman dishwasher 3-prong power cord
Now, it is the Eastman 69011 Dishwasher 3-Prong Power CordKit that is designed with a 3-wire receptacle connection made with a black vinyl jacket.
It is equipped with a 16-gauge heavy-duty wire, a voltage power rating of 13 Amps and 125 V, and a plug configuration of NEMA 5-15R. Measuring 5.3 Ft in long, it is easy to install. Because of its remarkable features, it cost around $10.
Bosch dishwasher power cord
And the final one comes from Bosch, one of the leading brands in the world popular for high-quality appliances. Its SMZPC002UC Dishwasher Power Cord is manufactured with the best quality elements ensuring a potential performance.
It has a long lifespan due to its superb features including perfect size, length, and power. It also comes with a certain period of warranty ensuring longevity.
However, in terms of price, it is one of the most extravagant power cords demanding nearly $50.
How long does a dishwasher’s power cord last?
How long a dishwasher’s power cord lasts will depend on the ways you use it. If you take care of the accessory, it can last for several years without a loss. But you should replace it every five years to avoid any unnecessary incidents.
3 High-quality dishwashers that last long
Now, some superb dishwashers come with the most high-quality materials and parts and last a long period. These dishwashers are briefly presented here.
1. BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Compact Countertop Dishwasher
The first one is a portable countertop dishwasher coming with 6 particular place settings and a wide interior. It is an Energy Star certified appliance that is designed with innovative features.
It includes a LED display, Hi-Temp, Heated Dry options, Child safety locks, etc. It has some modern specifications like a 3-part filtering system, Silverware basket, Faucet Adaptor, effective detergent and rinse aid dispenser with 4 settings, Hot water temperature, etc.
In terms of quality, it offers a heavy-duty stainless-steel tub interior and completely a long-lasting lifespan. Regarding cost, it is accessible at $580 for its remarkable aspects.
2. EdgeStar BIDW1802SS bUilt-in Dishwasher
The second one is the EdgeStar BIDW1802SS Energy Star Rated Built-In Dishwasher that is equipped with eight individual place settings offering more convenience.
Come with outstanding features, it includes separate dish racks, a silverware basket, cup trays, digital push buttons, a leakage sensor, etc. Its materials are stainless steel which ensures the utmost quality.
Due to its distinctive outlines, it is purchasable at $450 to $600 depending on colors and materials.
3. Frigidaire FFCD2418U 24 Inch Built-In Dishwasher
Consequently, the last one is a product of Frigidaire, a prominent industry in the world familiar with its magnificent and incredible home and kitchen appliances. This amazing dishwasher is adorned with 5 wash cycles, 3 spray arms, and 14 different place settings.
It has included some innovative features like hard food disposer, heated drying system, cycle indicator lights, filtration system, polymer tub, stay-put door, etc.
Ensuring its supremacy and longevity, it has gained NSF Certification and Energy Star Certification. Following the quality and distinctive landmarks, it is accessible at around $600 to $700.
Are power cords interchangeable?
No, power cords are not interchangeable since they are made for certain dishwashers and certain brands. That is why one power cord of a certain brand cannot be used by another brand’s dishwashers.
They are not universal and useful in other dishwashers. But now, some new and recent power cords are seen to be interchangeable among the leading brands.
For this reason, a power cord of a certain brand can be used by another brand’s dishwasher.
Can you use the old power cord on a new dishwasher?
As I’ve indicated before, a power cord is generally not interchangeable and universal. But some recent innovations are equipped with an interchangeable facility for which they are capable of being universal.
So, elaborately saying, it is not normal to use a specific power cord of a brand with another brand’s dishwasher. That is why if you buy a new dishwasher, you had better buy a new power cord also according to the demand of the dishwasher.
But if your power cord has special specifications and is in a good condition, you can use it on a new dishwasher.
Other parts that come with a dishwasher
A dishwasher is a complete appliance that comes with different types of components. Hence, the parts of a dishwasher are many. They are mentioned below.
1. Heating element is a fundamental component of a dishwasher. It is located at the base of the dishwasher tub that raises the temperature of the water and air.
2. Detergent and rinse aid dispenser is the next crucial part that comes in a box situated on the inside of the box.
3. Most dishwashers are designed with two or three particular racks.
4. A moveable Silverware basket is a necessary part of a dishwasher.
5. A dishwasher includes different kinds of spray arms.
6. A door latch is another significant part that ensures the door is closed.
7. Water inlet valve is also an important component of a dishwasher that controls the amount of water during a load.
8. Circulation pumps & motors are also included in a dishwasher.
9. One of the other crucial parts is the filtration system.
10. A dishwasher also comes with a Touchpad.
Final verdict
In conclusion, it is quite understandable that a dishwasher is not provided with a power cord. Rather it has to be bought separately and should be connected with the dishwasher if it is designed in such a way.
Otherwise, the dishwasher must be directly wired. If your dishwasher needs a connection with a power cord, you have to choose the best one according to the needs of your dishwasher depending on the different aspects of the cord.
Thus, be careful while choosing a power cord for your dishwasher.
Thamberul Islam is a born and raised Chittagonian who loves the outdoors and everything it has to offer. He has been an avid hunter and fisher his entire life, and takes great pride in providing for himself and his family. While he enjoys spending time in the great outdoors, Thamberul Islam also has a passion for fashion and loves to stay up-to-date on the latest trends. In his free time, Thamberul enjoys spending time with his wife and one young daughter. He is always looking to learn more and better himself, both as a writer and as a person.
