garbage disposals

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CopperTone

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MetroWest, MA
had an inspector the other day tell me that I cannot wire a garbage disposal with NM cable under the sink in a residential setting. Also he wanted a second disconnect under the sink - either a receptacle and install a cord cap or an additional switch under the sink. We installed a disconnect switch on the counter to the right of the sink. He claims that is only for operation not a disconnect. I say no that is the disconnect.

I have always used NM and have always have seen NM under a sink wired to a disposal - I suppose I could understand being subject to physical damage - but it is standard practice where I live and have worked on over 150 kitchens in the past 10 years and never have heard anyone dispute this.

Anyone agree or disagree?
 
Almost every install I have a 20A DP breaker feeding to a junction box under the sink and 12/2 from the G/D switch to the junction box. One leg goes straight to the dishwasher and the other is switched to the G/D both in MC cable.
 
It is probably enforcing the Code to the nth degree, but the install you describe is a violation of 334.15(A) in that the exposed NM is not following the surface of the building, and one could argue, if you are under the sink working on the disposal, the wall switch is out of sight.
Cord & plug with receptacle removes both possible violations.
 
He is pushing it bit far to want second switch. I do agree that the nm needs protected. What i did was slide carflex over that 2 feet of wire and used a 90 connecter. Code does say in site so really hard to fight when we know your laying on your back under the sink and can't see it. You could install a breaker lockout.
 
Jim W in Tampa said:
He is pushing it bit far to want second switch. I do agree that the nm needs protected. What i did was slide carflex over that 2 feet of wire and used a 90 connecter. Code does say in site so really hard to fight when we know your laying on your back under the sink and can't see it. You could install a breaker lockout.
Click to expand...

breaker lockout if less than 1/8 hp. Most gd's are bigger than that.
 
augie47 said:
It is probably enforcing the Code to the nth degree, but the install you describe is a violation of 334.15(A) in that the exposed NM is not following the surface of the building, and one could argue, if you are under the sink working on the disposal, the wall switch is out of sight.
Cord & plug with receptacle removes both possible violations.
Click to expand...

I agree this is where he is coming from - being picky - very picky. I've done this install over 200 times though and any place I've had to work on an existing GD in a residence - it has been installed this way. No inspector has ever siad a thing which means they agree with that install.
I can simply install a switch under the sink in a 4" sq metal box and whip out with MC to the GD. I just don't want to go back - PITA - for being picky.

Some inspectors can't help themselves - they have to have some correction noted - they can't just let a good job be a good job.
 
I use a cord and receptacle.. An inspector told me once that the NMis subject to potential physical damage underneath the sink.
 
I usually wire them with NM and simply tuck the cable behind the plumbing. There is no possibly way the cable is getting damaged without the plumbing getting damaged first. This is a non-issue to me. As CopperTone said this is a standard practice around here.
 
The AHJ in my area does not like a disposal hardwired with NM. This is an issue in my area.
 
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Yes, AHJ can be picky...only thing about the switch I can say is within sight..or the fact that a permanently installed locking means was not on the switch....picky, but code. All houses I ever do is with cord and plug 1/2 switched at sink and 1/2 plug for insta-hot or future. Only thing that can get you is putting your plug in the wrong place like behind disposal(only once:mad:)
 
Really a stupid thing to go after . A cord can't be damaged ? I would feel safer with romex and not having a receptacle that will get wet if any leaks. NEC at times looks foolish. Best way out with this inspector is cord and plug.
 
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