A pressure switch, sometimes known as a plunger switch, is an air switch that activates garbage disposal by forcing a burst of air down a plastic or vinyl tube to a control unit positioned under a sink. These electrically independent air switches allow placement on counter or sink surfaces.
Compared to conventional wall or cabinet-mounted electrical switches, this enables simpler button access. Sometimes buttons for turning on the garbage disposal from the switch box are supplied alone or in sets with tubing, electrical cords, and single or multiple outlet outlets.
They may only be compatible with continuous feed-type disposals, but they are frequently simple to install, more expensive, and more difficult to repair. But let us see what are they and their pros and cons.
What is a garbage disposal air switch?
That gleaming push-button switch you frequently see on kitchen countertops is an air switch for the garbage disposal. It is used to turn garbage disposal ON and OFF. It activates a switch that electronically links the disposal to the mains using air pressure.
Compared to standard wall switches, air switches are more aesthetically beautiful and practical. There are many different types of air switches, and they have numerous industrial uses. You must, however, purchase a model developed expressly for your garbage disposal in order to use it.
Garbage disposal air switches types
Electrical switches are best situated away from a counter or sink’s surface, which occasionally places them out of the disposal unit’s reach or even across the room.
A garbage disposal air switch enables a user-preferred placement on a horizontal surface while reducing the risk of an electrical switch being put on the flat surface of the counter, where water leaks could result in a possibly fatal shock hazard.
The switches function with the majority of garbage disposal models that have standard power ratings. However, power outlets often need to be positioned a few feet or less from the garbage disposal device underneath the cabinet.
A hole is drilled into the countertop to hold the cylindrical mount of a garbage disposal air switch, which typically has a flange and button design with a raised or flush button, or sporadically a fiber-optic touch-sensitive pad.
Users who are unsure about or lack the necessary tools to drill a hole in a certain countertop material may engage a service specialist to finish the installation.
Air switch or an electric one?
Comparatively speaking, garbage disposal air switch is less prevalent than electrical ones. The garbage disposal air switch for the garbage disposal is more expensive and has extra installation problems, like power access.
An electrician might be needed to install a switch box if garbage disposals are hooked directly into a wall for safety reasons. Additionally, there needs to be adequate air tubing to extend from the switch to the disposal unit.
The material or finish of the air switch for the garbage disposal is an additional factor. Both conventional and contemporary materials are available for the air switch button.
The cleansers used on the sink and fittings may harm some specialty finishes, such as satin and polished or brushed metals. The harsh cleansers and bleaches of heavy-duty home or commercial use can be better tolerated by a surface that is more durable, such as brushed or satin stainless steel.
How does an air switch work for a garbage disposal?
Air switches for garbage disposals are rather straightforward assemblies. Most are made up of just three simple parts: a countertop button, piping, and an air switch control box. The control box, which is plugged into an electrical socket, is connected to the garbage disposal.
By pressing the countertop button, you can turn on the switch within the control box by sending an air pulse via the plastic line. The waste disposal is now turned on. Since the countertop switch is only a simple switch that is turned on by pulsed air, you can also use it to turn the disposal off.
How does an air-activated switch work?
An air switch for garbage disposal has three components:
- Countertop PVC tubing with a push button
- Air switch or control panel
- A pulse of air is transported through PVC tubing to a control box under your sink when the countertop button is depressed.
The control box, which is plugged into a wall outlet, is connected to the garbage disposal. The internal air switch in the control box is turned on when the air pulse reaches it, turning on the garbage disposal. It makes a loud noise, taking all waste inside and chopping them into small pieces.
These pieces are sent by the tube to the garbage.
Your garbage disposal turns off when you press the countertop button once more.
Pros and cons of a garbage disposal air switch
This device is easy to install and in this article, we will tell you how to do it without the extra cost of the services.
It is also easy to use – your garbage disposal is easily operated with the help of air switches.
Compared to a wall switch, it has a unique outlook. There is almost no chance to press the wrong button and injure yourself.
Air switch uses air, not electricity, and that is why it is safe to employ the air switch kit.
However, there is one disadvantage that can affect your decision to buy it. Compared to a wall switch, an air switch is more expensive.
Air switches are not compatible with all garbage disposals, despite the fact that they do so with the bulk of them, especially vintage or huge, heavy-duty types. Make sure an air switch is compatible with your disposal before purchasing it. Most frequently, it is, but when it isn’t, it’s a major hassle.
How to install a garbage disposal air switch
A typical 120-volt electrical outlet can be found in the cupboard beneath the sink in the majority of contemporary kitchens. You can probably install the air switch by yourself if you have simple access to this outlet.
However, there are a few outliers. Those without an outlet under the sink ought to think about hiring a pro. Additionally, if you need to drill a hole in your countertop but don’t feel confident doing it by yourself, you might need help.
If you decide to tackle it yourself, you should be aware that it’s a simple task that only needs one tool: a vinyl tube cutter. You don’t even need to drill anything if your countertop already has a hole for a soap dispenser. The countertop button can be simply inserted into that opening. You can perform this work by carefully following the provided step-by-step instructions:
- PVC tubing should have one end inserted into the air switch button’s base.
- Put the tubing inside the countertop’s hole.
- The air switch button should be placed atop the hole. To temporarily retain the button in place, you could want to place something heavy on it.
- Cut off any extra tubing after measuring how much is needed to reach the outlet.
- Connect the washer, seal the tubing, and tighten it to the thread at the bottom of the button to install it.
- The PVC tube’s free end should be connected to the air switch control box.
- The control box and garbage disposal need to be plugged into an electrical outlet on the wall as your final two procedures. All that’s left to do is use your new push-button garbage disposal and enjoy it.
Garbage disposal air switch problems
Why is my disposal air switch not working? Air switches do have issues, despite being useful. Pushing the button frequently (wear and tear) and issues with the power unit are also possible. Before you buy a new one, try troubleshooting your equipment if it encounters any issues.
Here are the steps for air switch troubleshooting (case 1):
Step 1: There is an air leak and the air switch is not functioning properly or clicking. Then you should do the following:
First, disconnect the air tubing and inspect it for obstructions. If the tube leaks or is too old, replace it.
Step 2: Remove the push button unit if there are no leaks on the air tube.
Step 3: Release the unit’s button and ring, and then take out the bellows. Examine the bellows for any damage. You’ll require a new button if the bellows are broken.
Step 4: The issue must be with the power unit if the button unit and the air tubing are in good shape. Instead of attempting a DIY repair in this situation, I advise replacing it. Open the appliance if you have the necessary electrical knowledge, and look for any loose connections.
Case 2: The garbage disposal only operates when the button is depressed
There is an issue with the air switch if the disposal unit operates when the button is depressed but stops when it is released (the unit that is located inside the power module). You must swap out the power unit if this is the situation.
How do you test a garbage disposal air switch? To activate the air button assembly, press it. Keep your ear out for the air switch to “click.” The push button is sending enough air to activate the air switch if the ‘click’ sound is heard.
Case 3: The disposal unit isn’t working, but when the air switch is pushed, it clicks
Step 1: Determine whether the garbage disposal is the source of the issue or not. Connect the garbage disposal directly to the main outlet for this.
Step 2: If the garbage disposal is operating properly, the unit’s power module is the issue. Replace it is the best course of action.
Case 4: Air tubing issues
It is normal for the PVC air tubing to become detached from either the control box/air switch or countertop button since it connects the countertop button to the control box/air switch.
Additionally, the tube can kink or even start to leak. When this occurs, the air tubing is unable to send enough air to the control box’s air switch in order to turn it on.
It’s usually advisable to replace the tubing, though you can attempt to unlink the air tube or even apply electrical tape to seal a leak.
It’s also conceivable that food or water has gotten stuck in the air tube. If this occurs, remove the impediment and re-connect the air tubing.
Conclusion
Your garbage disposal can be made safer and simpler to use by installing an air switch. Sadly, not every disposal can be used with an air switch. Most will function with air switches, but older and more powerful devices might not be able to handle the change.
It’s a good idea to confirm that your disposal is suitable before purchasing the components and attempting to install an air switch.
Since batch-feed garbage disposals don’t actually use switches, you won’t be able to use one with them. These disposals only work when the magnetic stopper that is included is placed at the top. During operation, this safety function keeps things out of the disposal. Wonder How to Dispose of Styrofoam Properly, read