Is it code-compliant to install a GFCI receptacle inside a kitchen cabinet above the range hood, and if so, does the outlet require any sort of special enclosure, and can the appliance power cord just sit there, bare, at the back of the cabinet, plugged into the GFCI outlet?
We bought an undercabinet range hood online; it was advertised as "must be hard wired". We were replacing one that was hard-wired. However, when it arrived, instead of 12ga braided wire connectors that could be connected to the 12/2 supply line with wire nuts, it had a cord terminated with three-prong plug. The cord has fairly thin gauge insulated wire inside the sheathing, two conductors and a ground.
Turns out the model now comes with a cord, and the company no longer has models that require hard-wiring. The wiring terminals inside the range hood are inaccessible to the customer, at least not without nearly complete disassembly of the unit. So I cannot simply remove the cord and attach thicker gauge braided wire.
I have the option of
a) returning it for a refund
or
b) running the cord up into the cabinet above through a 1" hole drilled through the cabinet base above the range hood's punchout hole, and plugging it into a GFCI outlet that would be installed in the cabinet directly above. The 12/2 supply line would enter the cabinet through a hole drilled into the back panel of the cabinet.
Best Answer
Is it code-compliant to install a GFCI receptacle inside a kitchen cabinet above the range hood?
Yes. It's commonplace for over-the-range microwave range hoods, and by extension would be acceptable for more conventional range hoods as well.
Does the outlet require any sort of special enclosure?
No. A standard electrical box and trim plate will do.
Can the appliance power cord just sit there, bare, at the back of the cabinet, plugged into the GFCI outlet?
Yes. The kit will often include a D-loop and screw for mounting the extra cord against the wall.