A dishwasher and garbage disposal are two different gadgets in our homes. While they serve different uses, they are connected to our kitchen sinks. When installing them, most people are not sure whether they can run on the same circuit.
So, the question might arise can the dishwasher and disposal be on the same circuit? Both the dishwasher and the garbage disposal can be powered on the same circuit; it’s possible and safe. However, you must ensure the amperage rating of both appliances doesn’t exceed that of the circuit.
Using the same circuit for both the disposal and dishwasher can save you money and energy. You must ensure the load doesn’t exceed 80% of the circuitry capacity.
If you can assure that, then a dishwasher and disposal on same circuit are possible. However, it’s recommended that you have each unit on its own dedicated circuitry. Join me as we learn more about dishwasher and garbage disposal circuitry.
Contents
Can Dishwasher And Disposal Be On Same Circuit?
Without a doubt! An Ideal Dishwashers For Septic Systems can work on the same circuit as disposal. You just need to meet a few requirements to ensure safety and proper functioning.
First, both the disposal unit and dishwasher should not exceed 80% total load capacity of the circuitry system. The total amperage of both dishwashers and disposal should not exceed 80% of the circuit breaker amperage rating.
Consider using a 20-amp circuitry as opposed to the 15-amp circuit breaker. Why?
Most dishwashers are rated 10-amps while most garbage disposals are significantly lower. This simply means their combined rating will not reach 20 amps. Check the electrical code in your location. Overloading one unit can cause destabilization creating a safety risk.
Generally, it’s a good question to ask as appliance amperage might vary depending on the model. While the appliances can share a circuit, it’s never ideal. You need dedicated circuits for each appliance.
In the most ideal situation, a dishwasher comes with a ready dedicated 15-amp circuit breaker. Instead of getting another 20-amp circuit for both appliances, get another 15-amp circuit for use with the garbage disposal.
Does A Garbage Disposal Need A Separate Circuit?
Yes, garbage disposal requires a separate circuit. While it can work on a shared circuit, you should have a dedicated circuit. You’ll find most electricians connecting dishwashers and disposals on the same circuit.
While it’s pretty safe when done correctly, it’s never ideal. One must ensure amperage ratings of the circuit are enough to support the amp ratings of the two appliances. The total amperage ratings of both appliances must not exceed 80% of the total amperage of the circuit breaker.
So, if you have the space, then consider a separate circuit for the garbage disposal most garbage disposal is hardwired. They help shred out food and dirt from utensils keeping the dishwasher fresh and clean.
Overall, while garbage disposals are small in size, they do use a lot of power and require dedicated circuits. They need to be either hardwired or connected to a grounded outlet. A dedicated circuit is the best and remains highly recommended.
When installing a garbage disposal, you need a protected outlet with a 20-amp circuit breaker and 120 volts. Linking two appliances to one circuit breaker pose risks of malfunction. It would be best if you go for a dedicated circuit for your disposal.
Does A Dishwasher Need A Separate Circuit?
A dishwasher needs to be on its own electrical circuit. A dedicated dishwasher circuit should not need to supply any other appliances in the kitchen.
According to the electrical code, a dishwasher needs a separate circuit. In addition, the circuit needs to support at least 15-amps.
You’ve probably seen and read online that it’s possible to connect a dishwasher and other appliances on the same circuit. While it’s possible, it can be dangerous if not done correctly.
A dishwasher is a big kitchen appliance that draws a lot of power. Because of that, it needs a separate circuit. If you connect an extra appliance, power overloads might occur.
In most cases, the repercussion of overloads is tripping. However, on rare occasions, overloads can cause electrical damage and even cause a fire.
Several household appliances require separate circuits. These include the dishwasher, garbage disposal, refrigerator, oven, built-in microwaves, and stovetops. Furthermore, connecting these appliances to the same circuit is going against the electrical code.
Can You Run the Dishwasher and Disposal at the Same Time?
Yes, you can run the dishwasher and disposal at the same time. However, there are some considerations. Are the appliances drawing power from the circuit? Is the plumbing done correctly?
If they have separate circuits and plumbing is done correctly, then you can run them at the same time. This is a pretty common question when you get too busy in the kitchen.
When you need to multitask, you can turn on the dishwasher while emptying leftovers into the garbage disposal. Running these two appliances simultaneously is possible as long you meet the two conditions above.
Dishwashers and garbage disposals are designed to help clean dishes and dispose of garbage. They usually share the same drainage pipe. You need to clear any food particles from the disposal before using the dishwasher.
There are some homes with just a dishwasher and no disposal. The drainage for such homes is usually simple. However, if you have both appliances installed, intricate plumbing must be done. The dishwasher usually drains water through the garbage disposal lines.
If you want to use them at the same time, the drainage must be done correctly. Otherwise, you’ll get water from the disposal getting into the dishwasher.
Garbage disposals use a lot of force when crushing food leftovers. When crushing hard food leftovers, the pressure from the crushing might force water into the dishwasher drainage line. This is possible when using them at the same time.
It’s worth noting that the drain line for the dishwasher will be open since you’re using them simultaneously. So, if you must use these machines at the same time, then ensure the drainage is done correctly.
Start by checking the drain line for the anti-siphon feature. An anti-siphon feature is an air gap mounted on the kitchen sink. It’s cylindrical and helps prevent wastewater from disposal from getting into the dishwasher.
If the air gap is not functioning properly, then you cannot use the two units simultaneously. Fortunately for most homes, air gaps are usually fastened on sinks with screws. They are pretty easy to fix. You can also remove them for cleaning and return them with ease.
Conclusion
Dishwashers and garbage disposals are essential kitchen appliances, and they need to be installed and operated accordingly. However, there is doubt about whether you can use a dishwasher and disposal on same circuit or not. Although you can do that, we have explained the procedure above.
Nevertheless, there are risks and complications. You must check the amperage ratings of both appliances and ensure they don’t exceed 80% of the circuit rating.
It’s preferred that each appliance runs on a dedicated circuit for safety reasons. The devices can also run simultaneously when drainage is done correctly. Ensure you check the electrical codes in your location and always hire a qualified electrician.