[Nathan08]

Hello,

I have an old under cabinet range hood (wired) that I am getting rid of. I was able to get it off no problem, but now that it is off, I am wondering if I could install something else. Would it be possible to use the existing wiring for the range hood to wire in say a plug outlet or a light? I have basic skills, but don't like the idea of trying new things without asking if it is a good idea. If it is not, just say so :biggrin2:

Thanks,

Nathan

 

[Nealtw]

Sure you can. If you don't, it would need to be terminated in a box anyway.

 

[Nathan08]

Awesome. Though I have done some basic wiring before (swapping a light fixture for the same kind of fixture, etc). I wasn't sure, and have been researching. If I am correct, the wiring is 14 gauge, and should be ok for an outlet.

 

[Nealtw]

Awesome. Though I have done some basic wiring before (swapping a light fixture for the same kind of fixture, etc). I wasn't sure, and have been researching. If I am correct, the wiring is 14 gauge, and should be ok for an outlet.

Will it reach where you want to use it?

 

[de-nagorg]

Will it reach where you want to use it?

Even if it doesn't reach, he adds a junction box, and extends it.

But you know that, it's wiring 101.:devil3:

ED

 

[Nathan08]

Will it reach where you want to use it?

Oh yes, I was thinking of putting in a shelf below the wiring and the outlet up there for a plug in light or a google home device. One question though, is there an easy way to mount the electrical box in a wall that is already drywalled? I could cut the hole, but it would leave me no room for nailing the box to the stud. I don't suppose there are outlet boxes that can go right into drywall?

 

[Nealtw]

Even if it doesn't reach, he adds a junction box, and extends it.

But you know that, it's wiring 101.:devil3:

ED

That is why I asked:biggrin2:

 

[Nealtw]

Oh yes, I was thinking of putting in a shelf below the wiring and the outlet up there for a plug in light or a google home device. One question though, is there an easy way to mount the electrical box in a wall that is already drywalled? I could cut the hole, but it would leave me no room for nailing the box to the stud. I don't suppose there are outlet boxes that can go right into drywall?

Yes they are called Old work box

 

[Nathan08]

Yes they are called Old work box
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oKit1m3ReQ

One last question... the wall I am working with is an exterior wall, and the dry wall has vapor barrier behind it. Is there a work around there? I figure it is probably not a good idea to cut my vapor barrier to insert a box.

 

[Nealtw]

You could caulk the holes from the outside after you have shoved the wire in and then they have gaskets for the face plate. I think about as good as you are going to do with out cutting into the wall.
As it is kitchen it might want to be a gfci outlet.

 

[Oso954]

I’d terminate the circuit in a box and leave it in place incase you decide to reinstall a range hood or install an OTR microwave at a later date. By current code (US), they require a dedicated circuit.

I’d pick up my power for your light or google device elsewhere. In fact, I’d look for a totally different place for the google device. Putting it above a stove is a poor idea. The heat and grease or steam won’t be good for it.

With the plug in light, how do you turn it on ? I wouldn’t want to locate it where anyone would be forced to reach over a hot stove to turn it on. Even if you feel you could do it safely, not everyone is the same height or has the same reach.

 

[Nathan08]

I’d terminate the circuit in a box and leave it in place incase you decide to reinstall a range hood or install an OTR microwave at a later date. By current code (US), they require a dedicated circuit.

I’d pick up my power for your light or google device elsewhere. In fact, I’d look for a totally different place for the google device. Putting it above a stove is a poor idea. The heat and grease or steam won’t be good for it.

With the plug in light, how do you turn it on ? I wouldn’t want to locate it where anyone would be forced to reach over a hot stove to turn it on. Even if you feel you could do it safely, not everyone is the same height or has the same reach.

Some good points there. Where I am at, the range hood is on the same breaker as my kitchen lights. As for the google device, that is a fair point. In reality, I have been pondering it, and realize that the most logical thing to put up there would be a light, but I could replace the range hood and have a light with it. Back to the drawing board.

 

[Nathan08]

Just wanted to send on a thanks for all the answers. One of the reasons why we are getting rid of the range hood, other than it being old and not working well, is that it is the only white thing in our black appliance kitchen. My wife is now interested in the idea of getting a black range, which would make all of this research irreverent, but I did learn a lot. Thanks guys!

 

[rjniles]

Install a new range hood. Any receptacles on the kitchen counter need to be 20 amp and can not supply lights.

Sent from my Moto E (4) Plus using Tapatalk

 

[Calson]

Or install microwave oven where the hood was located. I have one mounted there as well as one in the pantry and avoided taking up kitchen counter space for one. They use 1400 Watts or less and so only a 15 amp leg is needed. Pick a model and then download the manufacturer's installation directions and note how far above the cooktop it needs to be mounted.

 

[rjniles]

Or install microwave oven where the hood was located. I have one mounted there as well as one in the pantry and avoided taking up kitchen counter space for one. They use 1400 Watts or less and so only a 15 amp leg is needed. Pick a model and then download the manufacturer's installation directions and note how far above the cooktop it needs to be mounted.

Be careful what you buy, many say 20 amp dedicated circuit.