by Stanley Roberts

Created on: January 31, 2009   Last Updated: July 27, 2009

If you are planning on remodeling your kitchen then you need to make sure the wiring is up to code. This article will provide an overview of the basic circuits needed in the kitchen but you should contact a professional electrician or electrical inspector in your individual area.

It is wise to remember that the National electric Code (NEC) is a guide to the minimun requirements and not all jurisdictions interpret it the same way. On the first few pages of the NEC you will notice the words "authority having jurisdiction" (AHJ)referenced. This is the part that tells you your local inspector is always right.

There are four circuits that are a certainty in every kitchen project:

1) Refrigerator - You must place the refrigerator on a dedicated 20 amp circuit. What this means is that the wire coming from the breaker can connect to no other outlets than this outlet.

2) Dishwasher - This is also a dedicated 20 amp circuit just like the refrigerator however it is allowed to hook the garbage disposal to this circuit if you desire.

3) Range- The range outlet is probably the only 220 volt outlet in your kitchen. If you use a separate range top and oven then the range and oven each need their own designated outlet.

4) Microwave- If you install an microwave over your range it will be a dedicated circuit as well. Even if you do not mount it over the range it is still best to run a dedicated circuit even if you place it on the counter.

In addition to the outlets above you are also required to have two small appliance circuits to cover the counter tops in your kitchen. These outlets get a little complicated for most people who do not wire homes on a regular basis. The counter tops in your kitchen cannot have any spot measured linear more than 24 inches from an outlet.

The best way to get this circuit laid out in most kitchens is to start at the middle of the sink. Measure 24" in one direction and mark an outlet. Continue every 24 inches until you reach the end of the counter. Now do the same in the opposite direction.

When you have your outlets marked just divide them in half and put half on one circuit the other half on a separate circuit. The outlets above the counter must be ground fault circuit protected (GFCI). This is done by installing a GFCI as the first outlet in each circuit.

Some jurisdictions will allow you to place your kitchen light on the circuit with another room; however, some require the lights in the kitchen to be on their own circuit. If you have more than two lights in the kitchen I recommend just placing them on their own circuit. You cannot go wrong by doing this.

If you have any outlets on your wall down near the floor these will have to be on a separate circuit and can be placed on the light circuit. If you have an outlet up high on the wall like for say a clock this outlet can be wired from one of the small appliance circuits on your counter tops. I recommend just placing it on the light circuit to avoid complications with the local inspector.

If you follow these guidelines I am sure you will not have any problems with your AHJ during inspection. As I said though, asking the person responsible for your jurisdiction ahead of time is very wise. I hope this doesn't seem to complicared because it really isn't.

As always, remember that electricity is dangerous and must be installed properly to protect life and property. If you have any doubts or are unsure about anything contact a professional.

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