: We have a portable dishwasher that we would like to plumb into our main drain and supply lines. The dishwasher does not sit close to the sink, and, in fact, is on a separate wall. The main supply and drain
: lines are fully accessible in our basement and are simple 1/2" and 1 1/2" PVC. They are approximately
: 5 feet from the dishwasher.

: The dishwasher will sit against a paneled wall and next to the refrigerator. The refrigerator has a new
: 12 guage 20 amp electric supply.

: Should I track down a conversion kit specific to my model (are they model specific?) or can I put together
: the equivalent myself from the local home improvement store?

: Can I run the drain directly into the drain lines in the basement, properly trapped of course, or do I need
: an air gap?

Jim,
I would get a conversion kit specific to your machine.

You can plumb to existing plumbing as long as there is a p-trap and an air-gap.
Terry