Section 422.16/Appliance Flexible Cords
NEC 422.16 covers which appliances are permitted to be connected by flexible cord and plug rather than permanent wiring, with specific cord length and type requirements.
Specific appliances are permitted to be cord-and-plug connected per Section 422.16. Kitchen waste disposers and built-in dishwashers are permitted to use flexible cords between 18 inches and 36 inches long (Section 422.16(B)(1) and (B)(2)). Range hoods are permitted to use cords between 18 and 36 inches. Trash compactors are permitted to use cords between 36 and 48 inches. Wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted cooking units, and free- standing ranges can be cord connected with cords long enough to permit moving the unit for cleaning. In all cases, the receptacle must be accessible (not behind a permanently fixed appliance), the cord must be identified as suitable for the purpose, and the cord must not pass through walls, ceilings, or floors. Appliances not listed in 422.16 must be permanently wired unless another article specifically permits cord connection.
Why this section exists
Flexible cords are more vulnerable to damage than permanent wiring because they can be pinched, abraded, overheated by contact with hot surfaces, and deteriorated by moisture. The NEC permits cord connection only for appliances that need to be removed for servicing and only with length limits that prevent excess cord from being compressed behind the appliance. The length restrictions ensure the cord is short enough that it does not coil behind the unit (creating a heat buildup risk) but long enough to reach the receptacle without strain. The accessible receptacle requirement ensures the plug can be disconnected without moving the appliance, providing a visible disconnect for servicing.
What plan reviewers look for
Plan reviewers check the kitchen electrical plan for receptacle locations serving cord-connected appliances. They verify the receptacle is accessible (typically in the cabinet space below the counter, not behind the appliance). They check that the appliance schedule specifies cord-and-plug connection with the correct cord length range. For dishwashers and disposers, they verify the receptacle is not in the space occupied by the appliance itself. They check that appliances not listed in 422.16 (such as built-in microwaves, exhaust fans, or under-cabinet lights) are shown with permanent wiring connections to dedicated circuits where required.