Change a Dishwasher Panel

If your dishwasher doesn't match your stainless-steel kitchen, you can replace the front panel for a new look. Figure A Figure B Figure C Figure D Figure E

If your dishwasher doesn't match the decor of your kitchen, you can change the front panel. For instance, if the front of your dishwasher is green but the rest of your appliances are white, you can replace the green panel with a white one. On newer dishwashers the front panels are reversible, with one side colored and the other side white. If your front panel is the same color on both sides, you may need to get a new panel directly from the manufacturer.

But what if your other kitchen appliances have a modern stainless-steel look? If that's the case, you can cut your own stainless-steel panel to size and attach it to your dishwasher. Beverly DeJulio, from HGTV's HomeWise, demonstrates how easy it is to do.

Materials:

Phillips- and flat-head screwdrivers
jigsaw, with metal-cutting blade
measuring tape
straightedge
framing square
clamps
stainless-steel panel
work gloves
safety glasses

Steps:

* Before you begin this project, check your owner's manual. If you don't have one , request a copy from the manufacturer.

1. Determine how to remove the front panel. Some panels are attached with screws around the sides of the door. Others can be removed by unsnapping a retaining clip on the bottom of the door (figure A).
2. After you've removed the retaining clip, slide the front panel out of the door . Most panels are flexible and easy to remove (figure B). Make sure any insulation behind the panel stays in place (figure C).
3. Measure the panel and use the measurements when purchasing a replacement panel . Most home-improvement centers carry these panels; just be sure to buy one that's at least as large as the original panel. (If you don't want to cut the metal yourself , you can custom-order a panel to fit your dishwasher.)
4. Transfer the measurements of the original panel to the sheet metal.
5. Use a straightedge to create a "fence" to guide your saw. To place the fence correctly , measure the distance from the saw blade to the outside edge of the saw base (figure D). Add that measurement to the difference between the original cover and your sheet metal. For example, if the sheet metal is 5/8" wider than the original cover , and the distance from the edge of the blade to the edge of the saw base is 1-1/4 ", your fence should be set at 1-7/8".
   
   * The front of the stainless steel will have a protective film over it. To prevent scratching the panel, make sure it 's facedown before you begin cutting.
   
   * Sheet metal can be very sharp. Be sure to wear gloves when handling it.
   
6. Mark the sheet at the starting and ending points of your cut. Make an additional mark to help you place your fence correctly. Lay the sheet metal on a sturdy surface such as a table or workbench. Then set the fence in place and secure it with clamps .
7. Double-check your measurements; then use a framing square to make sure the fence is aligned properly on the sheet metal.
8. Use a jigsaw with a metal-cutting blade to trim the panel to size. Start the saw before the blade comes in contact with the metal. Then make sure the base of the saw glides along the fence to ensure a straight cut.
9. When you're finished cutting, file off any burrs (figure E).
10. Finally, peel off the protective film, and reverse the removal procedure to install the new cover.