Hi-
I'm trying to install a dishwasher in an old home and would like some advice. First, I do not have a true ground wire from the switch that will be providing power to the garbage disposal. Outside of having an electrician come in to install a ground wire, my aged but wise uncle suggested I install a "false ground" that essentially connects a neutral jumper wire to the switch's ground, while also connecting the green ground from the disposal to this tab. Does this sound kosher? Any other suggestions?
Also, I'm faced with the choice of installing a receptacle which I can plug the disposal into, while also installing a switch that controls the outlet; or, alternatively, I can just hardwire from the switch to the disposal? What are the benefits/disadvantages (despite the headache of having to install an additional, unnecessary, outlet)?
Thanks so much!
2007-09-16 06:40:31 · 7 answers · asked by booksgalore78 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Use a ground clamp, attached to the cold water pipe.
No need to add an outlet, but sometimes it's handy to have one under the sink for work lights to do plumbing repairs, etc. Also, it is one more thing to do now, but one less thing to do next time you change out the disposal.
2007-09-16 06:52:55 · answer #1 · answered by Martin 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
If you have metal boxes and BX cable, instead of romex, you can run a ground from the switch to the back of the box. As far as an outlet and switch, I do that in every new kitchen I build. It makes it real easy if you need to service or replace your disposal. I do the same thing with dishwashers. Just buy an extension cord and cut the female end off. Then wire that to your appliance and plug it in.
2007-09-16 08:09:05 · answer #2 · answered by shawnd518 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Your 'aged but wise uncle` earned his wisdom
before GFI circuits were required for any outlet
within 6 feet of a sink.
If it's a GFI circuit, it will trip.
If it's not, it should be.
Even excepting that, 'false ground` wiring is
especially dangerous in wet areas like kitchens
and bathrooms.
Do it right, you do need that neutral wire,
and a ground. (There will be wet hands in
close proximity to the device, and grounded
piping.)
The receptacle for the disposal is handy to
have for a trouble light, and serves also as
a positive disconnecting means for working
on the disposal. (Keeps you from worrying that
a kid might play with the switch while you're
down there).
2007-09-16 07:56:37 · answer #3 · answered by Irv S 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
All good answers. If you tried the reset button and you do not have a key to turn the unit, take a broom stick or any other piece of wood and simply move it around in the disposal. Yes, you do need to be a bit violent with the moving of the stick in there. Than push the button again and flip the switch. I bet it will work but if it does not after few attempts with the stick and reseting you do have a dead disposal. It happens Good Luck!
2016-05-21 01:17:12 · answer #4 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you have armored cable with a metal gem box, buy an adapter that plugs in to outlet and has a ground wire that attaches to the screw that holds the cover plate on. Now your legal, just plug the dishwasher in.
From what you told me in your question, I wouldn't go near the electric. Never connect a ground to anything but a ground.
2007-09-16 07:09:11 · answer #5 · answered by gooch_08831 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
My advice is to either install a proper circuit or call an electrician to install a proper circuit. Forget the bootleg jumper. Do it right. As for the receptacle, it provides a handy disconnect for the disposal when you need to work on it or replace it. You just unplug it.
2007-09-16 13:42:57 · answer #6 · answered by John himself 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Yes, wire it properly. Go right back to the service box. It is very important for safety.
2007-09-16 18:57:25 · answer #7 · answered by len b 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋