"Josh" wrote in message
...
My house doesn't have a Garbage Disposal (nor do I foresee wanting
one) but since I'm replacing drywall behind the kitchen sink and
adding another outlet over the countertop, I want to run the wires for
a GD while I'm in there. It might make the house more desirable if I
ever decide to sell. I'm thinking of having a double switch box to
the right of the sink, with one switch for a small flourescent light
mounted over the sink and the other switch for the GD.

Here's my questions:

1. Are GD's usually hardwired straight from the switch near the sink,
or do they plug into an outlet under the sink which is switched on and
off by the GD switch above?



*They can be wired either way. Some disposals come with cords already
attached. I prefer cords to make it easy for the plumber to install and
remove without having to call an electrician.



2. Does the wiring code allow an outlet to be mounted under the sink,
in close proximity to the hot and cold water inlets? If so, does it
have to be GFCI? If outlets are permitted under the sink, is it best
to install them high (above the water inlets) or down low?



*Yes it is permissiable to wire an outlet under the sink and it is not
required to be GFCI protected though it is not a bad idea. I usually mount
the boxes where they are the most accessible which is usually on the cabinet
side close to the cabinet door. It is a royal PITA to work on a junction
box or receptacle way back inside especially in a corner cabinet. Keep it
up high so as to not interfere with household items.



If outlets aren't allowed under the sink, I plan on installing a
junction box under the sink (again: high or low?) and running the
wires from the GD switch down to the JB, putting wire nuts on the ends
of the wire, and a cover on the JB. If the next owner is someone who
can't live without a GD, at least the wiring will be there already.


*I think that is your best bet. Use a 4" square box. Leave extra slack on
the cable in case it needs to be relocated or pushed aside for plumbing.
Use a 20 amp circuit and keep it separate from the lighting.