You just unboxed your new Novete countertop dishwasher, you've got a sink full of dishes, and you're wondering how complicated this is actually going to be. Good news: setup takes about 10 minutes, requires zero tools, and works without any permanent plumbing changes. Whether you're in a studio apartment, an RV, or a dorm room, this guide will walk you through every step so you can run your first load today.

What's in the Box Before You Start

Do a quick check of everything that came with your NOVETE NOVETE TDQR01. You should have:

  • The dishwasher unit itself
  • A drain hose
  • An inlet hose (for tap connection, if you prefer that method)
  • A faucet adapter set
  • User manual with LED indicator guide

If anything is missing or damaged, contact support before proceeding. Also inspect the unit exterior for any shipping damage.

Pro tip: Keep the box and packing materials for at least 30 days. You'll want them for a return or exchange if anything goes wrong during setup.

How to Install Your Novete Countertop Dishwasher Step by Step

Step 1: Choose your location

Place the unit on a flat, stable countertop within 4–5 feet of your kitchen sink. The surface needs to support roughly 20–25 lbs when the tank is full. Make sure there's at least 2 inches of clearance on each side for ventilation.

Step 2: Position the drain hose

Route the drain hose into your sink. The hose needs to hang over the edge without kinking — a kinked hose will cause drainage problems mid-cycle. Most users drape it over the sink rim and call it done.

Step 3: Choose your water source method

The NOVETE TDQR01 gives you two options:

  • Built-in 5L tank: Pour water directly into the tank on top of the unit. This is true plug-and-play — no hose connection needed.
  • Direct tap connection: Attach the included inlet hose to your faucet using the adapter. This is useful if you run multiple cycles back to back.

For most people in small spaces, the 5L tank is the easier choice. It holds enough water for a full wash cycle without any connection.

Step 4: Add your detergent

Open the detergent dispenser door on the inner door panel. Use a standard dishwasher pod or about 1 tablespoon of powder detergent. Do not use regular dish soap — it will foam excessively and can damage the pump.

Step 5: Load your dishes

The lower rack fits plates, bowls, and larger items. The upper basket handles cups, glasses, and small items. Load dishes facing inward toward the spray arm and avoid nesting items together.

Step 6: Plug in and select a program

Plug the unit into a standard 120V outlet (it draws about 6 amps). The LED panel will light up. Use the control panel to select one of five wash programs:

  • Normal — everyday dishes, ~60 minutes
  • Intensive — heavy grease and baked-on food, ~90 minutes, up to 167°F (75°C)
  • Eco — light loads, ~90 minutes at lower temperatures
  • Glass — delicate items, ~60 minutes at lower heat
  • Baby Care — bottles and feeding equipment, ~60 minutes at 167°F (75°C) for sanitization

Press Start and let it run.

Understanding the LED Indicators During Setup

The LED indicator system is straightforward once you know what each light means:

  • Water indicator flashing: The tank needs water — refill the 5L reservoir before starting
  • Rinse aid indicator: Add rinse aid to the compartment on the inner door for spot-free drying
  • Salt indicator (where applicable): Some units have a water softener compartment — check your manual
  • Error codes: If an E-code appears, consult the manual. E1 typically means a water supply issue; E2 is usually a drain problem

Pro tip: Fill the rinse aid compartment during your first setup even if the indicator isn't on. It helps the air-dry function work better from day one.

Tips for Getting the Best Results from Day One

Now that you know how to set up the Novete countertop dishwasher, a few habits will keep it running well:

  • Don't pre-rinse, but do scrape: Remove food chunks, but skip the full rinse — modern dishwasher detergent is formulated to work on some residue.
  • Use the Baby Care program for plastic items too: The high-temperature sanitization cycle is great for cutting boards and reusable food containers.
  • Run a monthly maintenance cycle: Fill the tank, add a cup of white vinegar to the bottom, and run an Eco cycle with nothing inside. This keeps the interior fresh and prevents mineral buildup.
  • Wipe the door gasket weekly: The rubber seal around the door can collect grime. A quick wipe with a damp cloth prevents odors.
  • Don't block the spray arm: Tall items or pot handles sticking out can stop the spray arm from rotating, leaving dishes dirty on one side.

The NOVETE TDQR01 uses an air-dry function rather than a heated dry element, which saves energy. After the cycle ends, the door will crack open slightly to release steam — this is normal and helps dishes dry faster.

FAQ

Q: Do I need a plumber to install the Novete countertop dishwasher?

No. This unit is fully self-contained. The 5L built-in water tank means you can run it without connecting to any water line at all. If you want to use the direct tap connection, you just attach the included adapter to your faucet — no tools, no plumber, no permanent modifications.

Q: Can I use any dishwasher detergent?

Yes, but stick to products designed for automatic dishwashers. Pods, powder, and gel detergents all work. Never use hand dish soap — the sudsing agents will overflow the unit. For the Baby Care cycle, a fragrance-free, dye-free detergent is a good choice.

Q: How often do I need to refill the water tank?

The 5L tank holds enough water for one full wash cycle. You'll refill it before each use if you're using the tank method. If you connect directly to your faucet with the inlet hose, the unit draws water automatically.

Q: The drain hose keeps sliding out of the sink. What can I do?

Use a binder clip or a suction-cup hook to secure the hose to the sink rim. Some users also loop the hose through the faucet handle to hold it in place. The hose just needs to stay elevated above the dishwasher's water level to drain properly.

Q: Is the Novete countertop dishwasher loud?

The NOVETE TDQR01 runs at around 50–55 dB, which is roughly the level of a normal conversation. It's quieter than most full-size dishwashers. You can easily watch TV or talk in the same room while it runs.

You're Ready to Run Your First Load

Installing the Novete countertop dishwasher really is as simple as it looks. Set it on the counter, route the drain hose into the sink, fill the 5L tank, add a pod, and press Start. The LED-guided panel handles the rest. No plumber, no drilling, no lease violations.

Ready to get started? The NOVETE NOVETE TDQR01 is one of the cleanest countertop dishwasher options available for small spaces. The Baby Care cycle alone makes it worth it for families with young kids. Check our homepage, and feel free to drop any setup questions in the comments — we read every one.