[JLawrence08648]

Can I put a plug, 120v, in my dishwasher and plug it in an outlet?

Behind my dishwasher I have a junction box and my dishwasher is directly wired to the box. There is no other wires in the box but one, going to the dishwasher. Can I put an outlet in the box and a plug from the dishwasher? I was thinking of putting one of those plugs that you turn and it locks, the terminals are like an L shape and of course curved.

 

[Wiredindallas]

It is fine to have a receptacle and cord on dishwasher. Ideally I would run a wire from box to under the sink and put a receptacle there where it is accessible.

 

[Chris616]

You may unintentionally contravene the NEC by doing this. Not by converting from hardwire to plug, but rather because of where the receptacle for the dishwasher is located. It’s not supposed to be behind the dishwasher. See details here:
https://www.electricallicenserenewa...ation-Courses/NEC-Content.php?sectionID=320.0

This is one of those electrical code rules that doesn’t make sense to me. I think that the intent is to make it so that the plumber can unplug from the receptacle if he/she intends to work on the machine without pulling it out from under the counter. But….if the machine is hardwired the plumber would need to switch off the circuit breaker to kill power to the machine, so why can’t they do that for an appliance using a plug?

Chris

 

[Jim Port]

A code can be used if it is a listed appliance cord and meets the length restrictions. The receptacle should be accessible without pulling the DW.

 

[surferdude2]

400.7 Uses Permitted.

(A) Uses. Flexible cords and cables shall be used only for the following:

(8) Appliances where the fastening means and mechanical connections are specifically designed to permit ready removal for maintenance and repair, and the appliance is intended or identified for flexible cord connection.

Intended or identified is the key operator there. Can you prove either of those design intents? I'd say it's OK but you may find some inspector that won't accept it.

I see most dishwashers connected with NM (romex) and won't care to debate if that's better or worse than a Sj or SJO cord. The AHJ is king, not me, so keep that in mind.