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Jason Betzing
Before and after. Even though there are easier ways of an installing a dishwasher, ours became a master DIY project. The results worked well.
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Jason Betzing
Before and after. Even though there are easier ways of an installing a dishwasher, ours became a master DIY project. The results worked well.
Words by Jason Betzing
Even though our fifth wheel is practically new, we've made many improvements for comfort, tailoring it to our lifestyle. One of our favourite improvements so far is the installation of an automatic dishwasher. While every RV is different, there are some basic considerations no matter what type of RV model you own. Plus, if you're determined, it can be done. Here's how I did it and what I had to consider to make it happen.
Jason Betzing
Knowing where the main furnace duct is made, it was easy to relocate the register since the original location would be covered by the island addition.
Our Options
It seems like most RVers who want to ditch their dishpan hands do so by carrying a portable-style dishwasher, packing it up whenever they move or permanently attaching it on a counter top.
Neither one of these options worked for us; we didn't want more stuff to pack up when we were getting back on the road. We also didn't want a dishwasher taking up valuable counter space. After looking at the options, we decided that an installed-dishwasher was the best option for us. "Now, where is it going to fit?" was the next challenging question. As you'll see, our first answer to that question was "nowhere".
Jason Betzing
The pocket-hole jig made assembly very easy and sturdy with a professional appearance.
Our Concerns
When thinking about installing a dishwasher, there are three equally important aspects to consider. First, where will the wastewater go? For portable dishwashers you simply put a drain hose in the sink. However, an installed unit requires it to be plumbed into the grey water system.
Our next concern was, “how is water supplied to the dishwasher?” The unit we purchased, which was a Vesta DWV335BBS, only needs a cold water supply as it can heat its own water. The last aspect was where does it plug into? You'll definitely want this to be a protected GFI electrical circuit.
Jason Betzing
A dishwasher installation kit made installation easier.
When selecting a dishwasher, you'll also want to get the right size. For us, a single-drawer style was large enough. However, for more than two people, you may want an apartment-size or even a full-size unit. The model we chose was Energy Star-Rated. It uses only 7 to 15 L (2 to 4 gal) of water per load (depending on the wash cycle) while hand washing is an estimated 76 L (20 gal) per load.
Weight is another consideration. Our dishwasher, the island and countertop added approximately 34 kg (75 lb) to our RV. However, we cut at least that much on a previous project by reconfiguring our clunky dinette into office space.
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Jason Betzing
It was important to constantly test fit at every step.
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Jason Betzing
It was important to constantly test fit at every step.
The Location
Some ingenious RVers remove their oven and use that space to install a dishwasher. We considered that, but our oven is in a slide, meaning the plumbing would be unnecessarily complicated. After researching and trying to determine the best location, the kitchen island seemed to be perfect; waste water plumbing, water supply and even electrical power were all there. After measuring, we were again stumped. The island just wasn't big enough. Refusing to give up (I already bought the dishwasher), I began thinking about making the whole island larger. I looked online and couldn't find anyone else who had done it. We measured the slides, and actually laid it out on the floor with painter's tape. I remember thinking “this could work" and then immediately, "This will be a lot of work!" However, with measurements and a loose idea scribbled down, a dishwasher install now included an island enlargement.
Jason Betzing
As I used the original sink, the old countertop was a template for the sink and faucet cutouts.
Here's What I Had to do:
- Build a cabinet large enough to house the dishwasher but small enough to fit where the slides come together. I used birch plywood and poplar with a Kreg pocket hole-jig. I had to custom mix and test stain to match the existing island. I was also able to fit a wide drawer over the dishwasher.
- We needed to relocate a floor vent as the new island section would cover the original. This was easy, since we knew where the main duct ran (but cutting a hole in the floor of an RV is still a little scary).
- I had to tap into the island wiring and add an electrical outlet to plug-in the dishwasher. This was also easy as we tapped into an existing GFI outlet.
- I then plumbed the wastewater using a kit to connect the wastewater directly into the sink drain, which makes for a cleaner install, less fittings and most importantly, the less chance of leaks.
- I also had to plumb the water supply by tapping into the sink water supply using PEX and SharkBite fittings for an easier install.
- Then came the countertop. A new one-piece countertop was added along with the original sink and faucet. I found a solid butcher block counter top at Ikea, which is thinner than traditional butcher block (and less weight). This also meant I could shape it myself and was inexpensive compared to other materials. To preserve the wood, we decided on a pourable MAS Table Top Pro epoxy instead of oiling it for durability and low maintenance.
Jason Betzing
We then used a clear pourable epoxy to preserve the new butcher block.
Our Success
We've had the dishwasher for over a year and it's been great. It's large enough to easily load throughout the day, start it at night and wake up to clean dishes. An unexpected benefit is the extra 0.5 square metres (5 square feet) of counter space we gained, which now provides the perfect spot to prep meals.
This project is without a doubt a conversation piece. Yes, it's a little luxurious but that's OK, as it's all about identifying what makes RVing even more enjoyable – adapting your RV to fit the lifestyle you want. With a DIY attitude, some research and patience can help you accomplish almost anything.
Projects like these are wonderful opportunities to hone some skills and develop new ones. I'd never built a cabinet with face frames, nor worked with pourable epoxy. That being said, if you are not competent with power tools, plumbing and electricity, you should get help or hire a pro.
Jason Betzing
The finished masterpiece.
Jason Betzing and his wife sold it all to live their full-time RV dream. After retiring at age 40, they decided winter is a drag and world travel is more fun than shoveling snow. He loves helping people through sharing authentic, first-hand experiences. Connect on Instagram @FullTimeFire, on Facebook @MilesTwoGo or on his blog at https://www.MilesTwoGo.com