Garbage Disposal Code Requirements

Garbage Disposal Code Requirements: A Guide For DIY Installers & Plumbers

BySohel

This guide on Garbage Disposal Code Requirements will cover:

  • Garbage disposal electric or wiring code requirements
  • Garbage disposal plumbing code requirements
  • What are common garbage disposal code violations and how to avoid them
  • What do the inspectors look for when inspecting a garbage disposal installation?
  • Maintenance and operational tips to pass the inspection test

In short, you will get every information you need for a safe and proper garbage disposal installation that meets the code requirements.

Whether you’re a homeowner, DIY enthusiast, plumber, contractor, or inspector, this guide is designed for you. It equips you with the essential knowledge needed for a compliant installation.

Now, it’s time to dive in and explore the rules and regulations regarding garbage disposal installation. 

Shall we?

Table of Contents

What Are The Essential Code Requirements For Garbage Disposal Installation?

Here are the wiring and plumbing code requirements you should meet for proper garbage disposal installation: 

Garbage Disposal Wiring Code Requirements

According to the NEC code for garbage disposal, you can connect your food waste disposal to an electric outlet using a flexible power cord. But you need to follow these rules and regulations:

1. The power cord must have a grounding plug (the kind with three prongs).

  • Exception: If the garbage disposal is specially marked as having double insulation, it doesn’t need a grounding plug.

2. The power cord must be between 18 inches and 36 inches long.

3. Place the outlet where the power cord won’t get damaged.

4. The outlet should be easy to reach.

Garbage Disposal Wiring Code

Regarding GFCI protection, the NEC (National Electric Code) code doesn’t require a garbage disposal to have GFCI protection. In other words, GFCI protection is not mandatory for food waste disposal.

Though the NEC doesn’t make GFCI protection compulsory, it recommends homeowners have a garbage disposal on a dedicated circuit. 

The dedicated circuit will protect the disposal unit against overloading. However, a shared circuit with a dishwasher is sometimes appropriate. 

Generally, a food waste disposal unit requires a 15-amp circuit. However, a 20-amp circuit will be the preferred choice if you opt for higher-end garbage disposal models.

Now, it’s time to know what switch and control requirements you should meet to install a garbage disposal.

You must install a switch for the garbage disposal that is easily accessible and visible from the unit. You can use two types of switches to control the operation of your garbage disposal unit, including an air switch and a wall switch.

I highly recommend using an air switch to control the activation of the disposal unit, as most homeowners favor it.

If you choose the wall switch, ensure you place the switch in a safe location to prevent accidental activation. 

Garbage Disposal Plumbing Code Requirements

Follow these local plumbing codes regarding garbage disposal installation:

  • Drain Size: You must connect the garbage disposal to a drainpipe of 1.5 inches in diameter.
  • Water Supply: The garbage disposal must be connected to a cold water supply. Ensure the cold water supply is protected against backflow by an air gap or backflow preventer.
  • Trap: If you have a double sink in your kitchen, ensure the waste line coming from the garbage disposal has a P-trap. The trap is a U-shaped pipe that helps prevent.
  • Venting: Vent your garbage disposal to ensure the plumbing system functions properly.
  • Connection to Dishwasher: Most garbage disposals have an inlet that you can use to connect the dishwasher. If you have a dishwasher to attach to the disposal, ensure you install an air gap. Otherwise, the backflow of contaminated water will find its way into your dishwasher. 
Garbage Disposal Plumbing Code Requirements

What Are Common Garbage Disposal Code Violations And How To Avoid Them?

Homeowners often violate these wiring & plumbing codes when installing a garbage disposal, including:

  • Forget to use a dedicated circuit for the garbage disposal.  
  • Using improper drain pipe size or failing to install a proper P-trap can lead to clogs and backups.
  • Failing to connect the dishwasher to the disposal unit properly
  • Neglecting backflow prevention

Tips to Avoid Violation:

  • Check local building and plumbing codes before installation to ensure compliance with specific requirements in your area. I already mentioned those wiring and plumbing codes.
  • Hire a licensed plumber who is well-aware or well-educated about local plumbing codes if you are unsure about installation practices.
  • Maintain the garbage disposal regularly to ensure proper operation of the disposal unit and adherence to the safety standards. 

What Are The Inspectors Look For When Inspecting the Garbage Disposal?

Here is the inspection checklist inspectors look for when inspecting a garbage disposal unit: 

  • Inspectors check your garbage disposal for leaks.
  • They check the connection line between the garbage disposal and the dishwasher to verify the tightness of the connection.
  • Inspectors will check the disposal connection to a drain line at least 1.5 inches in diameter.
  • They will verify whether the disposal is connected to a cold water supply.
  • They will check if the electric connections come loose due to the vibration of the disposal operation.

Maintenance & Operational Tips To Pass The Inspection Test

Follow these garbage disposal maintenance and operational tips to pass the inspection test:

  • First, install the garbage disposal unit following the electric and plumbing codes mentioned above.
  • Feed only small quantities of food scraps at a time. For larger food particles, cut them into pieces.
  • Never put anything in the garbage disposal- except food and water. For example, don’t throw plastic, glass, forks, or spoons into the food waste disposal.
  • Run plenty of cold water before, during, and after using the garbage disposal. Turn on the cold water supply for 30 seconds after shutting off the disposal unit.
  • Grind ice cubes to clear food accumulation from the impellers in the disposal unit. 

FAQs

Does a garbage disposal need to be on a GFCI outlet?

No, a garbage disposal unit doesn’t need to be on a GFCI outlet. GFCI outlet is optional for food waste disposer.

Is a 15 or 20-amp garbage disposal required?

Most residential food waste disposers require a circuit of 15-amp and 120 volts. However, some higher-end garbage disposal models need a 20-amp circuit.

Should a garbage disposal be on its own circuit?

Yes, a garbage disposal unit needs a dedicated circuit, which is recommended by NEC.

Can the dishwasher and disposal be on the same circuit NEC?

The National Electric Code recommends a dedicated circuit for garbage disposal units. However, a shared circuit can be used for garbage disposal and a dishwasher unless the combined amps are too high.

How many amps does a 3 4 hp garbage disposal draw?

A 3/4 horsepower garbage disposal typically draws approximately 13.8 amps during operation. This level of current is significant enough that it is recommended to have the disposal on a dedicated circuit, ideally with a 20-amp breaker to prevent tripping during use

Conclusion

In summary, adhering to garbage disposal code requirements is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance in your home. 

Ensure you check all the electrical and plumbing codes I mentioned above regarding proper garbage disposal installation. If needed, bookmark this guide. 

Prioritizing those safety compliances and meeting those wiring and plumbing codes will ensure a well-installed garbage disposal unit in your home. 

Stay safe, stay compliant!

Resource Links: 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *