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Appliance Installation Cost Guide (Dishwasher, Range, Washer)
Buying a new appliance is only half the cost. Installation - proper hookup of water, gas, and electrical connections - adds to the total. Some...
- Updated August 27, 2026 - 4 min read
Buying a new appliance is only half the cost. Installation - proper hookup of water, gas, and electrical connections - adds to the total. Some appliances are easy to DIY; others require licensed professionals. Here's what each costs.
Dishwasher Installation Cost
Retailer delivery + installation: $100-$200 (often offered at point of sale) Plumber or handyman: $150-$300 DIY: Possible for direct replacements with existing connections
A dishwasher requires a water supply hookup, drain connection to the garbage disposal or drain line, and an electrical connection (or outlet under the sink). For a direct replacement, it's one of the more doable DIY appliance installations.
Add to the quote if: - Dishwasher drain air gap is not in place ($30-$80) - Existing supply shutoff valve needs replacement ($50-$100) - New circuit is needed (add $150-$250 for electrician)
Range/Oven Installation Cost
Gas range installation: $150-$350 Electric range installation: $100-$200 Gas line connection by licensed plumber: $150-$300
Gas ranges in California require a licensed professional to connect the gas line and apply for a permit in many jurisdictions. Don't let a general handyman do gas connections - this is a plumbing license requirement.
Electric range (240V): Plug-in installation is straightforward if the outlet exists. If it doesn't, an electrician needs to run a 240V circuit, which costs $200-$500 depending on distance to the panel.
Over-the-range microwave installation: $100-$250 for labor (securing to cabinet, connecting vent, wiring)
Washing Machine Installation Cost
Basic installation (hookups only): $50-$150 Including removal of old unit: $75-$200 With pedestal installation: $100-$250
Washing machines need a hot water hookup, cold water hookup, drain hookup (standpipe or laundry sink), and a standard 120V electrical outlet. For a direct replacement in an existing laundry area with working connections, this is a simple hookup job.
Stackable units or configurations in closets can be more challenging - add labor.
Gas dryer installation: Requires licensed plumber for gas connection. Add $150-$200 on top of standard installation. Electric dryer: Plug-in installation, $50-$100 for hookup.
Refrigerator Installation Cost
Basic delivery and setup: $50-$150 (often included by retailer) Water line connection (for ice maker): $100-$250 if a new line needs to be run
For most refrigerators, installation is included in the delivery price from major retailers. If you need a water line for an ice maker where none exists, add a plumbing visit.
Who Should Do Each Job
<table> <thead> <tr> <th>Appliance</th> <th>DIY OK?</th> <th>Who to Hire</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>Dishwasher</td> <td>Yes (direct swap)</td> <td>Plumber or handyman</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Gas range</td> <td>No</td> <td>Licensed plumber (C-36)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Electric range</td> <td>Yes (if outlet exists)</td> <td>Electrician if new circuit</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Washer</td> <td>Yes (direct swap)</td> <td>Handyman</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Gas dryer</td> <td>No</td> <td>Licensed plumber</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Electric dryer</td> <td>Yes</td> <td>Handyman if outlet exists</td> </tr> </tbody> </table>Tips for Getting a Good Price
Buy through a retailer that includes installation. Home Depot, Lowes, and Best Buy often include basic installation in delivery pricing. For appliances with straightforward hookups, this is the best value.
Ask about removal of the old unit. Most retailers charge extra for haul-away. Ask upfront so you're not surprised.
Verify gas connections are permitted. In California, gas appliance connections typically require a permit. An unlicensed contractor who skips this is a liability risk.
Bundle multiple appliances. If you're replacing multiple appliances at once, a single contractor can often do all of them in one visit for a lower per-unit rate.
Bottom Line
Appliance installation costs vary significantly: $50-$150 for basic washer/dryer hookup, $100-$300 for dishwasher, $150-$350 for a gas range. Always use a licensed plumber for gas connections. DIY is reasonable for electric appliances with existing connections.
Sources and editorial notes
Prices and permit requirements vary by location, property, equipment, and scope. Treat price ranges as planning estimates and confirm current requirements with the relevant authority and contractor.
- California Contractors State License Board - when a contractor license is required
- US Consumer Product Safety Commission - home safety
Related guides
- Dishwasher Installation Requirements: Plumbing, Power, and Space
- Dishwasher Not Draining: Causes and When to Call a Plumber
- When to Repair or Replace a Major Home Appliance
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