A new washing machine, oven or fridge freezer is exciting, but a few simple checks before delivery can save you money and avoid delays. Many installation problems are easy to prevent. The appliance does not fit through the door, the socket is out of reach or the water valve will not turn off.
This guide explains what to measure, what to check for electrics, gas and plumbing and when to call a professional. It is written with London homes in mind, where narrow hallways, flats and lifts can make deliveries harder.
Before a new appliance arrives, measure the space and the delivery route, check the plug socket or electrical connection, check the water isolation valve and drain, make sure gas appliances are fitted by a Gas Safe registered engineer and clear the area. Always read the manual for the exact requirements of your appliance.
1. Measure Your Space and Delivery Route
The most common problem is size. An appliance that looks small in a shop can be too big for your kitchen.
Measure the Gap
Measure the height, width and depth of the space. Do not just measure the front of the gap, because walls in older houses are rarely square. Measure at the back and at several heights, and use the smallest figure.
Appliances also need room behind them for cables and hoses, and space around them for air circulation. Check the manual for the exact gaps required.
Check Integrated Appliances and Cabinet Doors
Integrated dishwashers and fridges sit behind cabinet doors. Check that the hinge style and door fixing method match your cabinet door, and that your new appliance doors can open fully without hitting walls or worktops.
Check the Delivery Route
Measure every doorway, hallway and staircase from the front door to the kitchen, including turns and tight corners. Clear shoes, mats and coat racks from the route.
If you live in a flat, check the size of the lift and any building rules. Large appliances such as American-style fridge freezers may not fit. Ask your building manager if you need to book a lift or loading time, and check whether parking is available outside. Space is often tight in flats, so it also helps to choose appliances that suit the room. Our guide on the best home appliance brands for London flats covers slimline and reliable options. If you rent or have a leasehold flat, check that your landlord or lease allows a new connection, such as a washing machine waste pipe.
2. Check the Electrical Connection
Each appliance needs the right electrical supply.
Plug Socket Distance
Check that the plug socket is close enough to the appliance. Power cords are usually 1 m to 1.5 m long. Avoid extension leads for large appliances such as washing machines and fridges, as they can overheat. The plug should go straight into a wall socket.
Power Ratings
Most UK sockets are rated at 13 amps. This suits fridge freezers, dishwashers, washing machines and microwaves.
Electric cookers and ovens often need more power. They usually connect to a dedicated cooker circuit, with a cooker switch on the wall, often with a neon light. If your new cooker needs a different connection from the old one, or you are not sure, ask a registered electrician to check before installation day. Hard-wired connections should be done by a qualified electrician.
3. Check Water and Waste Connections
Washing machines, dishwashers and some fridge freezers need water. Check your pipes before the delivery to avoid leaks.
Check the Water Isolation Valve
Look behind or beneath your old appliance for a small tap called an isolation valve. Turn it off and on. It should turn freely and shut off the water completely. If it is stiff, rusty or leaking, replace it before the new appliance arrives.
Check the Waste Pipe and Drain
Washing machines and dishwashers need a drain connection. This is usually a standpipe or a sink outlet with a spigot. Make sure it is clear and that the hose fits snugly. The drain height usually needs to be within a certain range, often around 60 cm to 100 cm from the floor, to stop water siphoning back, but check your manual. If your old machine was slow to drain, find out why first. Our guide on why your washing machine is not draining properly explains the common causes.
Check Fridge Water Lines
Many American-style fridge freezers have a water and ice dispenser. Some need a connection to a cold water supply. Check whether yours does, and whether there is a water pipe close enough.
4. Prepare Your Home for Installation Day
- Disconnect the old appliance: Switch it off and unplug it. For a washing machine, drain the hoses into a bowl first.
- Defrost an old fridge or freezer: Switch it off a day or two before collection, so water does not leak on your floor.
- Clear and clean the space: Sweep the floor and remove dust and grit.
- Protect your floors: Lay cardboard or a blanket along the route to stop heavy wheels leaving marks.
- Keep children and pets away: Heavy appliances and open boxes can be dangerous.
5. Remember the Final Steps for Each Appliance
- Washing machines: Remove the transit bolts from the back before first use. Leaving them in can damage the machine.
- Fridges and freezers: Check the manual. Many appliances need to stand upright for a few hours before you switch them on, if they were laid down during delivery.
- Dishwashers and washing machines: Use the new hoses provided. Old rubber hoses can dry out, crack and leak.
- All appliances: Use a spirit level to make sure the machine is stable, and adjust the feet if needed.
What Can You Do Yourself, and What Needs a Professional?
Safe to do yourself:
- Plug a standard appliance into a wall socket.
- Connect a flexible water hose to a cold water tap or valve.
- Connect the drain hose to the waste pipe.
- Level the appliance using the adjustable feet.
Leave to a professional:
- Gas appliances: Gas hobs, ovens and cookers must be fitted by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Never connect gas pipes yourself.
- Hard-wired electrical connections: Electric cookers and other hard-wired appliances should be installed by a qualified electrician.
- Changes to cabinets or worktops: Cutting units or worktops needs the right tools and skills.
- Plumbing changes: Moving or adding water and waste pipes should be done by a qualified plumber.
If you want your appliance connected and tested properly, a professional installer is a better choice than relying on the delivery team, who normally only bring the appliance into the room.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an appliance installation take?
It depends on the appliance. A freestanding washing machine or fridge is often quick, while integrated appliances and gas hobs take longer. Ask your installer for an estimate.
Do delivery drivers install appliances automatically?
Not usually. Standard delivery often means the appliance is brought to the room only. If you want it connected and tested, book an installation service.
What should I do if my new appliance does not fit?
Do not force it. Forcing an appliance into a space can damage cabinets, pipes and tiles. Measure carefully before you buy, and ask the shop about returns.
Can I use my old water hoses on a new washing machine?
It is best to use the new hoses provided, because old ones can dry out, crack and leak.
Do I need to remove the transit bolts from a new washing machine?
Yes. Most washing machines have transit bolts at the back, and they must be removed before first use. Check your manual.
Do I need a registered electrician to fit a new cooker?
If the cooker is hard-wired, or needs a new circuit, yes. A qualified electrician should do the work and check the circuit.
Need Help Fitting a New Appliance?
A properly installed appliance works better and lasts longer. Our trained and insured engineers cover all London boroughs and work on all major brands, with a guarantee on parts and labour.
If you want your appliance fitted, connected and tested, book a visit for appliance installation in London and get honest advice and clear pricing. Contact London Appliance Repair now.