Switch location for Disposal

Users who are viewing this thread

Psjr56

Member
Messages
40
Reaction score
0
Points
6
Location
S. Jersey
How close to the sink can you put the switch for a garbage disposal? Is it ok to put it in the cabinet under the sink. I searched here and a electrical form but couldn't find the answer.
 

Terry

The Plumbing Wizard
Staff member
Messages
29,942
Reaction score
3,459
Points
113
Location
Bothell, Washington
Website
terrylove.com
The switch can be in the cabinet.

Or you can also use a button on the sink hooked up with a air hose to a control box.

Or you can use to top switched disposer. Insinkerator has an Evolution Cover Control® model.
 
Last edited:

Hackney plumbing

Homeowner
Messages
1,130
Reaction score
3
Points
38
Location
Alabama
I have often seen the switch mounted to the front of the sink's cabinet, so your answer is "put it anywhere it is handy".

I do not like that type install because standing at the sink you can accidentally turn the disposal on with your body. I prefer the air switch,wall switch,batch fed or a switch under the cabinet.
 

Psjr56

Member
Messages
40
Reaction score
0
Points
6
Location
S. Jersey
Thanks for the replies. I bought the insinkerator cord now I need a 20 amp line and a switch in the cabinet. If it were a new kitchen install I'd put it on the wall.
 

hj

Master Plumber
Messages
33,603
Reaction score
1,042
Points
113
Location
Cave Creek, Arizona
Website
www.terrylove.com
quote; I do not like that type install because standing at the sink you can accidentally turn the disposal on with your body.

That is only a disadvantage if you use the "Decora" style switches. It doesn't happen with toggle switches, and it is sometimes the most convenient spot to use it.
 

Hackney plumbing

Homeowner
Messages
1,130
Reaction score
3
Points
38
Location
Alabama
quote; I do not like that type install because standing at the sink you can accidentally turn the disposal on with your body.

That is only a disadvantage if you use the "Decora" style switches. It doesn't happen with toggle switches, and it is sometimes the most convenient spot to use it.

Maybe after the homeowners get use to it they dont bump it very much but on service calls I bump the toggle switches on when they are present. Just a crappy way to do somthing with a switch in the face of the cabinet.
 

Psjr56

Member
Messages
40
Reaction score
0
Points
6
Location
S. Jersey
Talked to a friend who is a licensed electrician who I haven't seen in a while and he said it has to be on a GFCI in our area. They make combo receptacle/switch/GFCI that I'll use and put it in the cabinet under the sink. He also said it has to have a cord on it too. Thanks for all the replies.
 

hj

Master Plumber
Messages
33,603
Reaction score
1,042
Points
113
Location
Cave Creek, Arizona
Website
www.terrylove.com
disposer

I have never seen a disposer plugged into a GFCI, and while most are connected with a plug in cord, there are many which are direct wired. Some would consider a switch inside a cabinet, where you have to open the door to get to it, inconvenient.
 

Psjr56

Member
Messages
40
Reaction score
0
Points
6
Location
S. Jersey
I have never seen a disposer plugged into a GFCI, and while most are connected with a plug in cord, there are many which are direct wired. Some would consider a switch inside a cabinet, where you have to open the door to get to it, inconvenient.

The electrician told me it was code in our area since 2011. I may still try and put the switch in the wall but fishing a wire in a wall with insulation is a pain.
 
Top
Hey, wait a minute.

This is awkward, but...

It looks like you're using an ad blocker. We get it, but (1) terrylove.com can't live without ads, and (2) ad blockers can cause issues with videos and comments. If you'd like to support the site, please allow ads.

If any particular ad is your REASON for blocking ads, please let us know. We might be able to do something about it. Thanks.
I've Disabled AdBlock    No Thanks