When you’re designing or renovating a kitchen, chances are your countertop gadgets — coffee maker, blender, toaster — play a big role. They’re useful, but when they're always plugged in and powered, you get standby energy waste, clutter, and potentially safety or code issues. Enter appliance garages, the hidden cabinets that keep these gadgets tidy and out of sight. But how do you control the power to these garages safely and smartly? A RIB relay plus a door switch is one of the cleanest solutions.
From relays and current sensors to power supplies and wireless devices, Functional Devices has been supplying contractors and facility managers with solutions that make installation easier and systems more dependable. Their RIB® (Relay-In-a-Box®) series simplifies projects that would otherwise require multiple components, helping you save time and ensure code compliance. Reach out for help with creative solutions.
Now let’s dive into how you can control power to an appliance garage with an RIB relay.
What Is a RIB Relay?
A RIB relay is a compact, prepackaged relay unit designed in-house by our talented engineers. These devices are designed to switch electrical loads on and off using a low-voltage or line-voltage control signal. Because the relay, housing, and terminal connections come ready to go, RIBs make installation straightforward compared to building your own relay setup from scratch.
RIB relays are widely used in HVAC systems, lighting controls, and other building automation projects. They’re reliable, UL-listed, and available in many models to suit different voltages and load capacities. This same technology works perfectly for controlling an appliance garage outlet.
What Problem Are We Solving?
Many countertop appliance garages contain a receptacle (outlet) that stays live whether the door is open or closed. In some jurisdictions (including parts of Canada), building codes require that receptacles inside enclosed spaces like appliance garages be switched, i.e. power must be off when the door is closed.
Door/window magnetic switches are popular low-voltage devices, but they can’t directly switch or handle high-voltage (120 VAC) safely. That’s where a relay comes in!
Why Use a RIB Relay for Appliance Garage Power Control
Instead of unplugging your toaster or flipping a power strip, a RIB relay lets you control your appliance garage outlet from a switch, timer, or sensor. Benefits include:
- Convenience. One switch can energize or cut power to all appliances in the garage.
- Energy Savings. Stop phantom loads and reduce standby power draw.
- Safety. Reduce fire risk by cutting power to high-heat appliances when not in use.
- Integration. RIB relays can connect to motion sensors, door switches, or even smart home systems for automatic control.
How the Setup Works
Now let’s explore how RIB wiring might look with our handy dry contact input RIB relays, specifically the RIB01BDC, as homes here in North America output 120Vac from the wall receptacles.
The setup looks like this:
- Connect the Black wire and the Orange wire to constant 120V Hot feed
- Connect the White wire and the receptacle Neutral to the Neutral feed
- Connect the Yellow wire to the Hot input terminal on the receptacle
- Connect the White/Red and White/Blue wires to the magnetic door/window switch
- In this setup the Blue wire is not used, so put a wire nut on the end of the wire
Appliance Garage Power Control FAQ
Q: What is a RIB relay and why is it ideal for appliance garages?
A: A RIB relay (Relay In a Box) is a prepackaged relay module designed to safely switch high-voltage power using a low-voltage or line-voltage control signal. In appliance garages, a RIB relay lets you cut power to the receptacle automatically—often triggered by a door switch or smart controller—helping you comply with code, improve safety, and reduce standby energy use.
Q: How do I install a RIB relay to control my appliance garage outlet?
A: You’ll run your line voltage (hot) into the relay, connect the relay’s switched output to your garage outlet, and wire a low-voltage switch (such as a magnetic door switch) to the relay’s control terminals. When the switch closes (door open), the relay energizes and powers the outlet; when it opens (door closed), power is cut off. Always shut off the breaker before working on wiring, and consult an electrician if you’re unsure.
Q: What type of door or motion switch should I use with a RIB relay?
A: Most installers use a magnetic reed switch designed for doors and windows. These low-voltage switches are inexpensive, reliable, and easy to mount. Make sure the switch is rated for the control voltage of your relay coil (often 24V or 120V depending on the model).
Q: How do I choose the right relay for my appliances?
A: Check your appliances’ total amperage and voltage, including startup (inrush) currents. Choose a RIB relay rated for at least the total load plus a safety margin. Most kitchen appliances in the U.S. are 120V, so pick a 120V-rated relay with a suitable amp rating.
Q: What are some tips for a safe and reliable installation?
- Turn off power
- Ground everything
- Cap unused wires
- Use UL-listed components
- Mount in a dry, accessible location
- Check local codes
Q: Can I connect a RIB relay to a smart home system?
A: Yes. Instead of a simple magnetic door switch, you can wire the relay’s control terminals to a smart relay module or automation controller. This allows you to turn the appliance garage outlet on or off from an app or voice assistant while keeping high-voltage switching safely isolated in the RIB relay.
Q: What are the main benefits of using a RIB relay for appliance garages?
A: Benefits include:
- Automatic power cut-off when the door closes.
- Compliance with codes requiring switched receptacles.
- Lower energy costs by eliminating phantom loads.
- Safer operation of high-heat appliances.
- Simple, flexible integration with other systems.
Convenience & Safety with Functional Devices
Using a RIB relay paired with a door or magnetic switch offers a clean, safe, and effective way to control power to appliance garages. You gain convenience, compliance with building codes, enhanced safety, and energy savings all while keeping your countertop looking neat.
If you’re doing a remodel, building new cabinetry, or just retrofitting your kitchen, this setup is a smart feature to include. Want help picking the right relay, or designing your wiring layout? We’d be happy to help. Give us a call.