I have a fiber optic switch, which is just like an air switch, only it has a sealed gasket so water can't go down it. Like air switches, fiber optic switches are available in several finishes. Waste King made mine, but it works with any brand of disposer. You should be able to see one in a store that sells Waste King GD's. You can buy them online, too, and much cheaper than in the store. Either an air switch or a fiber optic switch is much easier to use than a switch in the wall or under the counter.

For Zarco: We've had our air switch for only a couple weeks but so far I'm loving it. It is easy to keep clean, I just wipe it down along with the rest of the countertop. We got ours at Lowe's for about $60, and that included a package with white, chrome, and satin nickel finishes. Insinkerator brand and it works fine with our Kitchen Aid disposal. For illinigirl: I've seen air switches mounted on the front of the cabinet frame as an alternative, but that's probably not a better choice than countertop for your situation. I don't see why it couldn't be placed inside the sink base cabinet, or even in the flip-out tray in front of the sink, if that would help. Definitely something you should discuss with your GC and/or plumber. I believe there is plenty of flexibility, just need to think outside the box. Good luck!

We had the Badger and just replaced it with another Badger today. I wanted the same one since it fit and the dishwasher drains into it and it would hook back up the same. We didn't even have to change the hook up in the sink. Mine has the switch in the wall behind the sink. I don't see why your switch couldn't move to there. The air gap is for your dishwasher, so dirty water won't back up and drain into your clean in case of a plumbing back up. The bigger ones are really about the same size, so I don't see why you couldn't put a different one in. Oh, and yes, mine rusted out and was leaking from the bottom.

I've always had the on-off type. But it's no big thing. You can replace it later if it drives you nuts. You don't even have to change the button, just move the tubing to the new switch unit.