2020 NEC - Kitchen Outlet Rules
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- čas přidán 22. 07. 2024
- It's not uncommon to fail a final inspection on a newly built home due to some issue with electrical outlets in the kitchen. Here's a few points from the 2020 NEC that all builders should be familiar with.
Great information and beautifully presented. Thank you.
I'd like to see a video on all the outlets in the kitchen & laundry room, including the refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher/disposal, dedicated, which need to be GFCI protected and which is preferred, either 15A or 20A based on dedicated circuit or not. I know that both are allowed in the kitchen, but in the field we're putting in 15A outlets in the kitchen, unless it's a dedicated circuit, then it's a 20A outlet. Thanks for your video.
My toaster is plugged into the adjacent wall outlet (table height) at one end of the breakfast/dinner table. Actually, I have two receptacles at that location, on different circuits. When we remodeled the kitchen-dining area we made it NEC compliant.
Is there a minimum counter depth (not width) that gives any exception to the spacing requirements? Renovation work has a pilaster that the counter notches around resulting in a counter section of about 33" in width by 14" in depth. It also happens to be at one end of the counter. Where do I start measuring? Thanks.
How does this apply with the cooktop directly behind you, would you simply restart the 2-4 rule from the opposite corner?
Well explained,thank you 👍👍👍👍
What about the range oven is that included in the 4ft rule
20 amp combo breaker with Arc fault
Great explanation!!!
Where do we find there angled outlets with led lighting?
Most blenders have 6' cords on them. Vitamix blenders have them.
My old house is about 3 outlets shy then. And my wife is wanting them NOW😳
Please upload more videos about codes! Thanks for sharing!!!
Working on 2 right now. Thanks for watching.
The code really says you must have outlets spaced so that at not point along the horizontal surface can you get further then 24” from an outlet. Which means if you have an outlet 30” from the end of a countertop, you don’t meet code. Also you must have an outlet where a countertop is 12” or larger. So if you have a small countertop between a cooktop and a double oven and its 11” wide you aren’t required to have one there.
Oddly enough I’m about to install those flip up outlets for the first time and initially it was suggested to use a tower type. Never heard of them before now I’m bumping into them everywhere lol. Good basic video.
This is incorrect.
Any countertop over 12” must have a receptacle OUTLET, and 24” from edge is the maximum, but you can have UP TO 48” space between the receptacle OUTLETS
If you have them spaced at 48” can you get further then 24” from a receptacle?
@@SuperVstech I don’t see how what you said differs from what he said, no space can be 24” from an outlet. Just as no space along a wall in bedrooms, living areas, etc can be 6’ from an outlet.
@@billybilodeau1991 do you know if I can have my kitchen ceiling light and fan on the same circuit as my kitchen counter top outlets?
I don’t see why not but I wouldn’t only because its a waste of wire and 12gauge is harder to deal with. Older homes might have something like that because of how they were wired.
What about 2 feet from the sink code
good stuff Sir!!
Thank you
Don't you need a receptacle within 24 inches of a sink (both sides if sink is in middle of counter)?
No closer than 6” to the edge of the sink and no further than 24” from edge of sink.
Hey does anyone know where I can find code references for receptacles in a commercial kitchen or school kitchens? Or do the dwelling unit codes on receptacles apply to commercial kitchens as well?
Yes, the NEC.
This is very helpful! Maybe a video or some info about installing outlets in the gap above kitchen cabinets for light strips? If NEC compliant..
Strip receptacles are allowed to run along the bottom of the wall cabinets as long as they don’t exceed the maximum height allowed. When this is done it does make for a clean looking backsplash.
@@HomesBuiltRight keep in mind, the receptacles, and receptacle outlets are different... a strip of receptacles less than 24” above a countertop would only count as a SINGLE receptacle outlet... no matter how many receptacles are in the strip.
Hard wire them and run spilt tubing and strap it
I would love to find documentation supporting this to show my builder.
My customer wants an power outlet inside a cabinet for sole purpose of pluging in an 1800 watt Fryer oven, is it acceptable to have an outlet like that inside the cabinet?
Sure.
It will NOT reduce the required countertop outlets though.
Can 'Pop ups' be installed in the underside of a cabinet and pop down? We will be getting granite countertops and backsplash and don't want do ruin the look of receptacles, thanks.
I would check with your local building official. In the end - it’s their decision that counts.
Do the outlets on the same circuit have to be side by side continuous with each other? Or can you have 2 circuits 4 oulet duplex staggered. So instead of breaker 1 duplex outlets a and b, breaker 2 outlets c and d. Instead can you put it breaker 1 powers duplex outlets a and c, breaker 2 outlets b and d. ??
Minimum two circuits and so long as both circuits have GFCI protection and AFCI protection, stagger them however you’d like.
What about the rules for outlets on either side of the stove? Isn't there a minimum/maximum distance? I am getting ready to tile and one is 16" away, and the other is 15" away. I can only move the 15" to 16" but it is getting very close to the fridge. Comments?
They can go right up to a slide in range (just not behind it). You start measuring from the edge of the countertop at the range and then cannot exceed 24”. If yours are 15” and 16” from that edge you are OK.
Does the 2020 NEC also require AFCI on outlets within 6 feet of the sink? (Potentially including dishwasher and disposal?)
Arc fault protection for receptacles in kitchens and laundry areas was actually added in the 2014 NEC. You’ll usually see combination AFCI/GFCI breakers for these areas.
@@HomesBuiltRight l m.j moo moo pub
boo
@@HomesBuiltRight but it was in 2017
I’m working on a remodel, I’d like to have undercabinet outlets. My question is, do the GFI‘s have to be installed inside the upper cabinets or can they be relocated someplace else. The issue is having the homeowner having to cut into very expensive upper custom cabinets and having to look at GFI reset circuits in their beautiful custom cabinets.
You can put the circuit on a GFCI
I've read that the same kitchen counter circuits may also power a refrigerator, a gas range, a clock, and even outlets in the dining room. Instead of serving only the counter area. Is this correct?
yes....but, what if the refrigerator manufacturers want their products on a separate circuit. Can the building inspector tell you to invalidate their product. Code says you can run more circuits, just the minimum is two 20 amp circuits. Say your ref takes 7 amps and your microwave takes 15amps. (just run another circuit for the ref and you cure these problems.)
What about accommodating microwave hoods? My kitchen is from 80s and while we have two circuits, there is a separate 20a for the refrigerator. I’m installing a microwave hood and wonder if the refrigerator/microwave can share same circuit. I’d love to see how this is all described in code. The total combined peak load is 2kw (1100+900). Thanks and great video. Nice and tight, clear to understand.
Thanks Ken. I defer all specific questions like this to your local Building Official or local electricians due to variable codes and ordinances. Thanks for watching.
@@HomesBuiltRight lol good answer.
@@MrKen59 they can share a circuit
@@electricaf365 no they cannot microwaves are too powerful and they should have their own dedicated circuit
what is the minimum distance from a sink on the backsplash can a CFGI outlet be installed
I’ve only seen a maximum distance - 36”.
Good to know
Thanks for the video =)
What about the outlet feeding the microwave? That's got to be above 20 inches higher than the countertop.
That one is not servicing the countertop. 20” rule applies only to those.
You failed to mention the circuits must be 20 amp. Otherwise,good presentation
In the 2020 code they also require arc fault circuit interrupter protection.
@@jolyonwelsh9834 I think if you use the gfci, you don’t need to install arc fault breaker
@@jesusortiz6842 GFCI does not protect against arc fault.
@@jesusortiz6842 you thought wrong
Thanks for the video. Can the GFCI outlets be placed under the cabinet (instead of backsplash wall). Do the codes allow it?
Yes. The face of the lower cabinet is doable under certain conditions. You would follow similar rules like the ones for islands. You could also choose the pop up style of outlets as well.
So there are three GFCI outlets in my kitchen, you're not supposed to use microwaves in GFCI a lot of appliances cannot handle the GFCI.
I can't even use my appliances in my rental. I just moved in here and the GFCI can't even handle my microwave they don't have any dedicated outlets/ circuits
We have a new build with no gfci in our primary sink area, not up to code
It’s on your breaker at the panel.
Is that microwave plugged in two feet above the counter top?
Microwave outlet is in a cabinet above the unit. (This outlet does not serve the countertop)
Do all kitchen outlets need to 20 amp type?
The outlets themselves, no.
What if there is a sink between the outlets?
Then you start measuring from the edge of the sink in each direction.
Can knob and tube be made safer by installing afci breakers on the knob and tube circuits? Or is it best to shell out thousands to rewire.
I’m not an electrician. Best to contact a local professional and ask them this question.
I had a house with knob & tube and an electrician told me there's no need to replace it. That was his opinion for what that's worth. The insulation on that wire was very degraded, but still in place. If left undisturbed I assume it would be fine. I replaced it when I did a remodel though.
@@waterbug1135 just remember if you have existing knob & tube wiring that wiring CAN NOT be covered with any insulation etc, bottom line it must be exposed for air exposure including running down walls.
Shell out the thousands to replace it. It is extremely dangerous!!! Mice have probably chewed all the insulation off, the splices made over the 100 plus years that it's been in service are probably faulty. When that stuff was installed, the only load was lighting and maybe a receptacle in each room. Burning alive in a fire is a very bad way to die. I've been wiring for 40 years and I've seen a lot a bad stuff. Take my advice or buy a lot of good life insurance!
@@davenag957 OK, knob and tube is NOT "extremely dangerous ". It's just about common sense. If it's damaged or needs repairs then replace it ( just like anything else) . If you have a small basic house , few lights and a few outlets, it's not worth changing it to romex. Leave as is.
On other hand, if you plan on installing insulation, remember knob and tube must be run in free air. If you plan on upgrading your service panel, remember almost every circuit needs to be AFCI protected ( usually with afci circuit Breakers). Problem is that knob and tube was installed with shared neutrals ( multi branch circuits ) . I only seen one manufacturer so far that actually makes an AFCI breaker for multi branch wiring. Also, I've heard about a couple home insurance companies refusing to renew existing policies unless the knob and tube was replaced
Should the refrigerator be on a dedicated circuit and should the microwave also, be on its own circuit or included on one of the 2 circuits addressed in the video? Thanks
Electricians and code officials may have varying opinions. Technically, no. An over the range microwave does not require a separate circuit but most will supply one since the make and model of the unit can vary and there are code limits on the amount of power that little thing can draw. Fridge is similar. It can be on a shared circuit but really shouldn’t be based on the size of modern refrigerators.
2:49 where in the code book dose it say maximum 4 foot on center or mention 4 foot 2 foot im not trying to be a rude guy i realy am asking
In the 2018 IRC it’s in E3901.4.1 and the 2020 NEC has wording in 210.52(C). Hope that helps.
@@HomesBuiltRight thanks for the reply after reading 210.52c1 repetedly the detaill is recepticles shall be installed so that no point along the WALL LINE is more than 24" horisontaly from a recepticle. i so thought that ment recepticals every 2 feet infact ive done at least a hundred of peicework apartment kitchens like that but now i understand where the 4' came from even though i dont see 4' in the code book its because in the middle of the 4' is the 2' spot of WALL LINE between recepticals is still 2' from a receptical i think they should realy put the number 4 and 2 in the code book but thanks for the reply again i needed that clarified.
Sink?
Thats part of it ,,, how close to a sink can a outlet be?????
In line with the edge. (That’s why they need GFCI protection)
My refrigerator outlet was inside cabinet
Pop up outlet is allowed on kitchen floor?
I don’t think they are rated for use in a floor.
Who is mopping the floor?
You said 2 foot 4 foot, so no more than 4 feet, but what does 2 foot has to do?
Let’s say you have a toaster with a 24” cord. Anywhere you put that toaster on the countertop it should be able to plug in within a 24” span. (The 2’ rule). Therefore, outlets cannot be more than 48” apart along countertops. (Does that make sense?)
Dave Yelovich yess thank you! So does the 4 feet distance end where the sink goes? If so what would be the closest you can put an outlet to the sink?
Can go right up to the sink. Within 2’ of the edge of that sink you would need an outlet. (I know you wouldn’t put a toaster on the edge of your sink but that’s how the code reads).
good video
Distance from end of counter
No more than 24”
What about under cabinets outlets?
Yes, under cabinet strips or individual receptacles are OK as long as they are not more than 20” above the countertop and the spacing rules are still adhered to.
@@HomesBuiltRight thank you for the quick reply 😊
Hello Dave, I am building a tiny house and it has a two foot wide countertop and the countertop has no backsplash (because of window). Can I place an outlet on the front of cabinet (where the sliding drawer is located in your video) just below the countertop level ? I also have open space on the side of the kitchen cabinet. Is it okay to place an outlet on the side of the cabinet? This will be similar to having an outlet on the face of the cabinet (just below the countertop level) except it will be on the side of the cabinet. Thanks so much in advance for any reply...
Sounds like you have an application similar to island rules - when they are all placed on sides. Check your local codes for tiny homes. They may be dealt with differently than houses in the IRC or NEC.
What happens if the gas range is 48 inches? Isn’t it impossible to get an outlet to be less than 4 feet apart?
The spacing rules apply to the workable countertops. You don’t count the range space.
@@HomesBuiltRight so the 4 feet would reset?
@@Platerpus7 yes. There would need to be an outlet to the left and right of the range - within 24” of the edge next to the range.
@@HomesBuiltRightI had a window in the way so couldn’t do it. Nobody is inspecting my house.
When I built my retirement home I frustrated my Electrician by doubling the number of outlets, Dimmable light switches and exterior outlets & motion sensor & decorative lights. (my wife's) ideas. Outlets every 4 ft. in the garage as well.
Why?
I’m in a electrical class right now and he asked me how many circuits are required in a kitchen can you plz respond fast
2 at least
Thank you Santino. I just saw this. Good answer. That’s an open ended trick question though. Yes, 2 circuits for receptacles. But to be a “kitchen” by definition it’ll need some appliances. Each one has its own circuit. Range! Fridge? Disposal? Dishwasher? Trick question.....
Dave Yelovich very true. I’m an apprentice and have learnt a lot from your channel.
@@HomesBuiltRight what's the code for how many outlets on 1 circuit?
@@santinoconte4181 you should be asking your instructor during classroom studies. Next ask your journeyman your assigned to work under.
Have you had a situation where you have counter tops! But in other parts of the house like a game room or hall or even the utility to my knowledge this kitchen rule only apply in the kitchen! (Talking about the 2 feet 4 feet outlets) can you help me out thank you!
@T-RopE Have some respect...and He was not asking you Dude...
Countertop receptacle outlet rules as described in section 210.52(C) apply to kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, dining rooms and similar areas. That 2’ rule applies. If you had cabinetry with countertops in a game room or library (or other types of rooms not mentioned in the first sentence) the rules would be per section 210.52(A). In a nutshell, for “other countertop” areas those countertops are included as “wall space.”
Distence from sink and closest outlet.
Technically, there can be an outlet right on the edge of the sink - but not more than 24” from that edge.
@@HomesBuiltRight yah, though I wouldn’t like splashing water on the outlet. Maybe 23” would be better for my house. Never lived in a house the had one close to the sink. The code these days has so much in it, but one or two seem to get missed.
You cannot exceed 4 feet between outlets? Why? Why can't they be 5 feet apart???
Countertop outlets: If, let’s say, you place a toaster with a 24” cord between 2 outlets on a countertop, it should be able to plug in to the left or right. Code says maximum spacing for countertop outlets is 48”.
Simple answer: because the code says so.
Because appliance cords are only 2', they don't want extension cords used for appliances. Extension cords cause fires. It's the same in other residential rooms, no more than 6' to any receptacle, with many details regarding short walls and fixed glass panels. All lamps come with a 6' cord, and again, no extension cords required when the electrician follows the code.
Wall spacing codes
I live in Massachusetts not sure if the rules differ but does every outlet have to be GFCI protected or is it just the first plug or outlet in the circuit?
If done at the outlet, yes, the first in line would work. However, many circuits are GFCI protected.
No way in a kitchen with all the liquids, crumbs, and greasy fumes would I put outlets below the counter top.
👍👍😉
Nice video🌹👏⚘❤❤❤
They are supposed to be arc fault breakers as well. You are better having combination breakers. It’s best leaving this to licensed electricians
They are actually called dual function breakers.
I just wanna know why my kitchen has a friggin coaxial outlet.
So you can have cable tv in your kitchen...
@@kevinyork4757 who wants that?
@@djmystery7235 Lots of people would put mini TV's under the cabinet so they can watch the news or soaps while cooking.
Gen z’r ?
18" from edge of sink
A receptacle can be right next to the sink or up to 24” away from the edge of the sink. 18” is in that range.
Gfci × afci...on kitchen
Should be dual funtion breaker
Or
Gfci receptacle +afci breaker
More easy to get dual funtion breaker
And regular receptacles...
Which will be protected from
Panel with the dual funtion breaker
I usually see both at the breaker.
Island my dude
didn't comment on islands !
Talk only? You have to do something
Outlets and lights can go on the same circuit?
@@eberthpineda3224 The Kitchen, Breakfast, Dining, Pantry branch circuits for receptacles are not permitted to have any other outlets connected to those circuits, including lighting outlets and or receptacles in other rooms.