Dishwasher disconnecting means

[dirk]

Forum members,
What are your thoughts on installing a single pole switch (above the counter) for a dishwasher? I think it is a good practice for cheap money but have been unable to win any debate that it is a code requirement.
Also, I have heard about electricians installing receptacles behind the dishwasher. Are people actually going to the trouble of installing a receptacle, cord and attachment cap for dishwashers?
Would this not be considered a bad practice?
Should I have posted this in contracting?

 

[paul32]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

Above the counter would be confusing to the homeowner. In my house it is below the sink, in the same double gang box as the receptacle for the garbage disposal. Yes, it is a normal single-pole switch.

 

[templdl]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

My disconnect is with a group of other switches, the over the sink light and disposer. My wife and I know which switches are what but because they are not marked nobody else would.
When I do DW installs mine are located under the sink on the side next to the DW. I also mark them. If I add a disposer both switches are mounted in the same box with the disposer toward the front, and each marked.
I am aware of DWs being cord and plug connected but haven't done it that way myself or have seen any. If used the plug and receptacle should be readily accessible as a disconnecting means. I have seen more and more GDs installed with cord and plugs which to me seems to be a much quicker way of replacing a GD.

 

[electricmanscott]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

I install a receptacle either behind the dw or under the sink, depends on the situation. There are dw's that come factory equiped with a cord now or I will install my own. I do dozens of kitchen remodels each year and find this the best way to go. If am in for finish work before the plumber he just has to plug it in when he comes. No extra trip for me. I always remove the counter height "disconnect" switch that the homeowners gennerally think goes to nothing.

 

[Guest]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

Originally posted by electricmanscott:
I install a receptacle either behind the dw <big snip> I always remove the counter height "disconnect" switch that the homeowners generally think goes to nothing.

I'm wondering about putting the receptacle behind the dishwasher. Dishwashers are usually screwed into the cabinet. They are not easily moved (like a free-standing refrigerator). 422.16(B)(2)(5) mentions the receptacle must be accessible if cord-and-plug connection is used. Is a receptacle still accessible if it's behind the DW?

 

[racraft]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

I have a duplex outlet under my sink. A switch controls half the outlet, which is where the disposal is plugged in. The disposal came with it's own already installed cord and plug. I added a cord and plug to the dishwasher and use the other half of the duplex outlet. The instructions with the dishwasher indicate to hard wire or to install and use a cord and plug. Readily accessible may be a bit of s stretch, as one needs to remove a few loose items and reach around the diposal to get to the plug.

 

[Guest]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

I clearly believe that an under sink receptacle would be accessible. I'm not sure about behind the dishwasher, so I choose to put them under the sink for accessibility (if cord-and-plug connected).

 

[electricmanscott]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

You are permitted to locate the receptacle in the space occupied by the appliance. It is accessible if you locate it at the bottom where you can remove the lower cover of the dishwasher and unplug or plug the uniit in if needed. Same with a trash compactor. You would have to remove the cmpactor to get at the receptacle.

 

[bwyllie]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

I understand putting these in for the convenience but is it a code requirement, that is what Dirk was asking originally. In a commercial setting would the dishwashers unit switch(marked with an "off" position) and the circuit breaker(located in the floor's electric room) feeding the dishwasher suffice or does a separate disconnect need to be installed. I have seen numerous installations without a switch for the dishwasher..I know that doesn't make it right but these installations have passed inspections.

 

[russ]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

Maybe!
You have to read 422.30 thru 422.34 to decide if the switch is required. I use to require a separate disconnect switch, under our old code.(1969 Chicago) Now I recommend they install a receptacle.
If it is wired direct, I don't require a switch if the unit switch has a marked off position like 422.34 says.

 

[a.wayne3@verizon.net]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

We install a 1 gang box horizontally as far down as possible and off centered in the space for the dishwasher.This way we do not have to remove the dishwasher to hook it up,just remove toe plate,install an appliance cord(which serves as a service disconnect)and reach under the d/w and plug it in.You could install the receptacle under the sink if the d/w is right next to it,but then you would have to remove the d/w to plug it in.

 

[hillbilly]

Re: Dishwasher disconnecting means

I always install a receptacle under the sink on the cabinet wall nearest the DW. I also install a pigtail on the dishwasher and saw a hole thru the cabinet wall that is big enough for the cord cap to pass thru. I don't have to be there when the DW is installed. All the plumber has to do is slide it back while feeding the cord cap thru the hole and plug it in. Also when I saw the hole I keep it large enough and high enough for the plumbers water and drain line to pass thru.
steve