Dedicated 20A Kitchen circuit

[Stuart Brooks]

When was a "dedicated" kitchen circuit first required? Some info I have says 1959. The problem is a neighbor selling house built in 1990. The dining room receptacles are wired with 12ga and on the same 20 Amp circuit as the kitchen. When they bought the house, there wasn't a GFCI in the kitchen period. One was added to the circuit when they bought the house in 2006. A home inspector tripped the kitchen GFCI and found that the dining room receptacles were off and went back on when the GFCI was reset.Said it was illegal.

[Gunnar Alquist]

When was a "dedicated" kitchen circuit first required? Some info I have says 1959. The problem is a neighbor selling house built in 1990. The dining room receptacles are wired with 12ga and on the same 20 Amp circuit as the kitchen. When they bought the house, there wasn't a GFCI in the kitchen period. One was added to the circuit when they bought the house in 2006. A home inspector tripped the kitchen GFCI and found that the dining room receptacles were off and went back on when the GFCI was reset.Said it was illegal.

Hi Stuart,

Unfortunately, my NEC collection only goes back as far as 1965 (below) and then jumps to 1999. Also unfortunately, I am unable to tell if this means that each room is required to have two 20 ampere circuit or if the entire group of rooms is required to have two 20 ampere circuits. I rather doubt it is the former, as I cannot imagine the need for two 20 ampere circuits in the dining room.

If I read it correctly, it is OK. Of course, this is beyond the scope of a home inspection and unlikely to be found, except by accident. The other consideration would be; is it hazardous? Unless JP or HG comes up with a potential hazard, I cannot see it as much of an issue.

(From the 1965 NEC)
Article 220-3 (b) Receptacle circuits, Dwelling Occupancies
For the small appliance load in kitchen, laundry, pantry, family room, dining room and breakfast room of dwelling occupancies, two or more 20 ampere branch circuits in addition to the branch circuits specified in Section 220-3(a) shall be provided for all receptacle outlets in these rooms, and such circuits shall have no other outlets.
Receptacle outlets supplied by at least two appliance receptacle branch circuits shall be installed in the kitchen.

(From the 1999 NEC)
210-11(c) Dwelling Units.
(1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section, two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits shall be provided for all receptacle outlets specified by Section 210-52(b).

210-52. (b) Small Appliances.
(1) In the kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits required by Section 210-11(c)(1) shall serve all receptacle outlets covered by Sections 210-52(a) and (c) and receptacle outlets for refrigeration equipment.

Of course, I could very well have just looked up something irrelevant. :rolleyes:

[Alton Darty]

When was a "dedicated" kitchen circuit first required? Some info I have says 1959.

1959 NEC
220-3 b Receptacle Circuits, Dwelling Occupancies
For the small appliance load in kitchen, laundry, pantry, dining room and breakfast room of dwelling occupancies, two or more 20 ampere branch circuits in addition to the branch circuits specified in Paragraph 220-3 (a or b) shall be provided for all receptacle outlets (other than outlets for clocks) in these rooms, and such circuits shall have no other outlets.

[Jerry Peck]

(bold and underlining is mine)

1959 NEC
220-3 b Receptacle Circuits, Dwelling Occupancies
For the small appliance load in kitchen, laundry, pantry, dining room and breakfast room of dwelling occupancies, two or more 20 ampere branch circuits in addition to the branch circuits specified in Paragraph 220-3 (a or b) shall be provided for all receptacle outlets (other than outlets for clocks) in these rooms, and such circuits shall have no other outlets.

Which means that the receptacle outlets in the dining room may be on the kitchen circuits.

[Alton Darty]

(bold and underlining is mine)


Which means that the receptacle outlets in the dining room may be on the kitchen circuits.

Thanks Jerry, thats the way that I read this one. I was hoping that you would provide some commentary on this article.

[Jim Port]

Stuart, the other inspector was incorrect as others have shown the code that allows the DR receptacles to be fed from one of the kitchen small appliance branch circuits. You could also install another 20 amp SABC for the dining receptacles but it is not required.

[Derek Guridi]

Stuart, the other inspector was incorrect as others have shown the code that allows the DR receptacles to be fed from one of the kitchen small appliance branch circuits. You could also install another 20 amp SABC for the dining receptacles but it is not required.

Hey Jim.

A lot of ECs seem to run a separate SABC because of AFCI.

[Jerry Peck]

Stuart, the other inspector was incorrect as others have shown the code that allows the DR receptacles to be fed from one of the kitchen small appliance branch circuits. You could also install another 20 amp SABC for the dining receptacles but it is not required.


Hey Jim.

A lot of ECs seem to run a separate SABC because of AFCI.

The dining room does not, as Jim pointed out, require a small appliance branch circuit (SABC). The easy way to solve the SABC on a GFCI and AFCI is to just not run one into the dining room/living room/etc.

You can wire all the receptacles in a house as 20 amp and not have them be SABC, so, if you want a 20 amp branch circuit going into the living room for the entertainment center, do so, and it goes on an AFCI, no GFCI required.

[Jim Port]

There is supposed to be no problem with a GFI device on an AFCI protected circuit.


The dining room does not, as Jim pointed out, require a small appliance branch circuit (SABC).

Jerry, it might be helpful to say it does not require a separate 20 amp circuit and being fed from either or both of the kitchen SABC is allowed. The first time I read this I took what you said as the DR receptacles did not need to be part of the 20 amp kitchen circuit. Perhaps we are both saying the same thing, just different wording.

[Gunnar Alquist]

Wait... Does this mean I got it right? Maybe I'm getting the hang of this code thing.

[Derek Guridi]

The dining room does not, as Jim pointed out, require a small appliance branch circuit (SABC). The easy way to solve the SABC on a GFCI and AFCI is to just not run one into the dining room/living room/etc.

You can wire all the receptacles in a house as 20 amp and not have them be SABC, so, if you want a 20 amp branch circuit going into the living room for the entertainment center, do so, and it goes on an AFCI, no GFCI required.


Not quite. A separate 20 amp circuit to the dining room is a SABC. SABC do not require GFCI protection. What is required is to be GFCI protected is the counter top receptacles and they have to be on a SABC.

If there is a wet bar in the dining room all receptacles within 6" require GFCI protection.

Also, a SABC cannot go to a living room.

[Jerry Peck]

There is supposed to be no problem with a GFI device on an AFCI protected circuit.

That is what I've heard and read too.


Jerry, it might be helpful to say it does not require a separate 20 amp circuit and being fed from either or both of the kitchen SABC is allowed. The first time I read this I took what you said as the DR receptacles did not need to be part of the 20 amp kitchen circuit. Perhaps we are both saying the same thing, just different wording.

Actually, I am trying to say that one or more of the dining room receptacles 'may be on the kitchen small appliance branch circuit', or they 'may be wired completely separate from the kitchen small appliance branch circuit', and that 'every receptacle in the house could be on a 20 amp circuit and those circuits would not be considered to be small appliance branch circuits'.

Not sure if I worded that any better?

I think we are saying the same thing to a point, then I am adding additional information.

[Jerry Peck]

Not quite. A separate 20 amp circuit to the dining room is a SABC. SABC do not require GFCI protection. What is required is to be GFCI protected is the counter top receptacles and they have to be on a SABC.

If there is a wet bar in the dining room all receptacles within 6" require GFCI protection.

Also, a SABC cannot go to a living room.

Are you telling me that I am not allowed to run a 20 amp circuit to the living room, or bedrooms, or den, or ... ? :confused:

And that every 20 amp circuit I run to those other rooms *are* SABC? :confused:

Please explain and provide code sections.

[Derek Guridi]

Are you telling me that I am not allowed to run a 20 amp circuit to the living room, or bedrooms, or den, or ... ? :confused:

And that every 20 amp circuit I run to those other rooms *are* SABC? :confused:

Please explain and provide code sections.

Silly, I am not saying that every 20 amp circuit is a SABC. I am saying that that receptacles in a dining room are a SABC. Whether they are on the same circuit as the counter top or not is a design choice. I could have 20 SABC in the kitchen and as long as 2 hit the counters, I am legal.

210.11(C) Dwelling Units.
(1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the
number of branch circuits required by other parts of this
section, two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits
shall be provided for all receptacle outlets specified by
210.52(B).

210.52(B) Small Appliances.
(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.

[Scott Patterson]

When was a "dedicated" kitchen circuit first required? Some info I have says 1959. The problem is a neighbor selling house built in 1990. The dining room receptacles are wired with 12ga and on the same 20 Amp circuit as the kitchen. When they bought the house, there wasn't a GFCI in the kitchen period. One was added to the circuit when they bought the house in 2006. A home inspector tripped the kitchen GFCI and found that the dining room receptacles were off and went back on when the GFCI was reset.Said it was illegal.

Back to the original question..........

As others have said, nothing is wrong with what you are describing. The home inspector is wrong and he/she needs to know they provided the wrong information in their report. Tell your neighbor that they need to tell the inspector to provide a cite to back-up what they reported. Also if that inspector actually used the term "illegal" chances are that they have over reported or misstated a few other items in the report.

[Stuart Brooks]

Thanks gentlemen. The inspector in question is a part timer. The rest of the time he's a fireman in another county. The buyer didn't make it an issue. The "inspector" also ran water in every tub, sink, & shower for 2 hours. He said if there was a leak, a water stain would show up. Didn't have a moisture tester. The house ha been occupied since 1990. Think a leak would manifest by then. Oh yes, he gives a 100 day guarantee on his inspection.

[Jerry Peck]

Silly, I am not saying that every 20 amp circuit is a SABC. I am saying that that receptacles in a dining room are a SABC. Whether they are on the same circuit as the counter top or not is a design choice. I could have 20 SABC in the kitchen and as long as 2 hit the counters, I am legal.

210.11(C) Dwelling Units.
(1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the
number of branch circuits required by other parts of this
section, two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits
shall be provided for all receptacle outlets specified by
210.52(B).

210.52(B) Small Appliances.
(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.


And you skipped over 210.52 and 210.52(A) for what reason?

[Derek Guridi]

And you skipped over 210.52 and 210.52(A) for what reason?

I can post the whole NEC if you want.;) Make your point.

Is a circuit in the dining room a SABC or not?

[Jerry Peck]

I can post the whole NEC if you want.;) Make your point.

Is a circuit in the dining room a SABC or not?

The 20 amp circuit to the dining room is *not automatically* considered to be a small appliance branch circuit, it may simply be a multi-outlet circuit for general use installed in accordance with:

(bold and underlining are mine)
- 210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets.
- - This section provides requirements for 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacle outlets. The receptacles required by this section shall be in addition to any receptacle that is:
- - - (1) Part of a luminaire or appliance, or
- - - (2) Controlled by a wall switch in accordance with 210.70(A)(1), Exception No. 1, or
- - - (3) Located within cabinets or cupboards, or
- - - (4) Located more than 1.7 m (5½ ft) above the floor
- - Permanently installed electric baseboard heaters equipped with factory-installed receptacle outlets or outlets provided as a separate assembly by the manufacturer shall be permitted as the required outlet or outlets for the wall space utilized by such permanently installed heaters. Such receptacle outlets shall not be connected to the heater circuits.
- - - FPN: Listed baseboard heaters include instructions that may not permit their installation below receptacle outlets.
- - (A) General Provisions. In every kitchen, family room, dining room, living room, parlor, library, den, sunroom, bedroom, recreation room, or similar room or area of dwelling units, receptacle outlets shall be installed in accordance with the general provisions specified in 210.52(A)(1) through (A)(3).
- - - (1) Spacing. Receptacles shall be installed such that no point measured horizontally along the floor line in any wall space is more than 1.8 m (6 ft) from a receptacle outlet.
- - - (2) Wall Space. As used in this section, a wall space shall include the following:
- - - - (1) Any space 600 mm (2 ft) or more in width (including space measured around corners) and unbroken along the floor line by doorways, fireplaces, and similar openings
- - - - (2) The space occupied by fixed panels in exterior walls, excluding sliding panels
- - - - (3) The space afforded by fixed room dividers such as freestanding bar-type counters or railings
- - - (3) Floor Receptacles. Receptacle outlets in floors shall not be counted as part of the required number of receptacle outlets unless located within 450 mm (18 in.) of the wall.

- 210.11 Branch Circuits Required.
- - (C) Dwelling Units.
- - - (1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section, two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits shall be provided for all receptacle outlets specified by 210.52(B).

- 210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets.
- - (B) Small Appliances.
- - - (1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for refrigeration equipment.
- - - - Exception No. 1: In addition to the required receptacles specified by 210.52, switched receptacles supplied from a general-purpose branch circuit as defined in 210.70(A)(1), Exception No. 1, shall be permitted.
Exception No. 2: The receptacle outlet for refrigeration equipment shall be permitted to be supplied from an individual branch circuit rated 15 amperes or greater.
- - - (2) No Other Outlets. The two or more small-appliance branch circuits specified in 210.52(B)(1) shall have no other outlets.
- - - - Exception No. 1: A receptacle installed solely for the electrical supply to and support of an electric clock in any of the rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1).
- - - - Exception No. 2: Receptacles installed to provide power for supplemental equipment and lighting on gas-fired ranges, ovens, or counter-mounted cooking units.
- - - (3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. Receptacles installed in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall be supplied by not fewer than two small-appliance branch circuits, either or both of which shall also be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the same kitchen and in other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). Additional small-appliance branch circuits shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the kitchen and other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). No small-appliance branch circuit shall serve more than one kitchen.

So ... I ask you again ... is it your position that ALL the 20 ampere receptacles in the "kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area" are required to be small appliance branch circuits?

Are you also telling me that every "kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area" requires two or more small appliance branch circuits?

You have not answered that, and, as you consider your answer, consider the code I posted above (and below):
- 210.11 Branch Circuits Required.
- - (C) Dwelling Units.
- - - (1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section ...

I await your answer.

[Derek Guridi]

The 20 amp circuit to the dining room is *not automatically* considered to be a small appliance branch circuit, it may simply be a multi-outlet circuit for general use installed in accordance with:


So ... I ask you again ... is it your position that ALL the 20 ampere receptacles in the "kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area" are required to be small appliance branch circuits?

Nope, just the required ones serving the wall spaces and counter tops.

Are you also telling me that every "kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area" requires two or more small appliance branch circuits?

Nope, two only for serving all the required ones in all the areas would work, I will even let you put the fridge on one of them.

I await your answer.

The required wall and counter top receptacles in the other specified areas are all SABCs.

For example, Can I put a general purpose 15 amp circuit to a counter top if I have the two 20 amp ones already?

[Jerry Peck]

"
So ... I ask you again ... is it your position that ALL the 20 ampere receptacles in the "kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area" are required to be small appliance branch circuits?

Nope, just the required ones serving the wall spaces and counter tops.

Are you also telling me that every "kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area" requires two or more small appliance branch circuits?

Nope, two only for serving all the required ones in all the areas would work, I will even let you put the fridge on one of them.

"


The required wall and counter top receptacles in the other specified areas are all SABCs.

Okay ... what walls spaces in a dining room are *required* to have SABC?

In *addition to* the general use receptacles.

Are you saying (I keep trying to get you to answer this) that EVERY 20 amp circuit I put in a dining room IS REQUIRED to be a SABC? That I cannot run a 20 amp general purpose circuit to the living room, dining room, breakfast room, family room - that ALL of those circuits ARE REQUIRED to be considered SABC?

That is the question I keep asking and you keep *not* answering. You are dancing around the bush, that is for sure, but you are *not* answering it.

[Derek Guridi]

What do you define as a SABC?

Why does a dining room have to be on a 20 amp circuit?

If you have a counter top in a dining room, does it need receptacles? Is this a SABC?

If I run a circuit just for the wall receptacles in the kitchen and and dining room, why does it have to be on a 20 amp circuit?

[Derek Guridi]

"

"



Okay ... what walls spaces in a dining room are *required* to have SABC?

In *addition to* the general use receptacles.

Are you saying (I keep trying to get you to answer this) that EVERY 20 amp circuit I put in a dining room IS REQUIRED to be a SABC? That I cannot run a 20 amp general purpose circuit to the living room, dining room, breakfast room, family room - that ALL of those circuits ARE REQUIRED to be considered SABC?


Yes. That receptacle circuit is a SABC.

That is the question I keep asking and you keep *not* answering. You are dancing around the bush, that is for sure, but you are *not* answering it.

I have answered you. The wall receptacles in the dining area are a SABC. That is why they are on a 20 amp circuit.

[Bill Kriegh]

I have answered you. The wall receptacles in the dining area are a SABC. That is why they are on a 20 amp circuit.

There are exceptions for wall receptacles in a dining room not to be on a SABC, therefore not all dining room receptacles are necessarily SBACs.

BUT........
210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets.
(B) Small Appliances.
(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve ALL wall and floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.

(2) No Other Outlets. The two or more small-appliance
branch circuits specified in 210.52(B)(1) shall have no
other outlets. This means they can't serve rooms other than those specified

A refrigerator receptacle doesn't need to be on a SABC because of an exception, nor does a switched receptacle for lighting purposes. Same rules apply in a kitchen. Frige has a special rule though.

The rest have to be SABCs though, either separate or an extension from the kitchen SABCs kitchen and the circuits can't leave the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar areas, no general use receptacles allowed except the switched one(s)

Not much room to wiggle here

The intent is that things like waffle irons, coffee pots, various warmers and such will be used in a dining room and the circuits are sized to handle them separately from other general use circuits in the house. Dining room circuits are small appliance branch circuits, and if separate from the kitchen SABCs must be accounted for in load calculations. With many AHJs limiting how many receptacles can be on a SABCs this can be an issue

[H.G. Watson, Sr.]

(2) No Other Outlets. The two or more small-appliance
branch circuits specified in 210.52(B)(1) shall have no
other outlets. This means they can't serve rooms other than those specified



Wrong. "or similar areas"!


A refrigerator receptacle doesn't need to be on a SABC because of an exception,

You are confusing and muddling requirements and exceptions for GFCI protection and small appliance branch circuits. Most refrigerator/freezers employed in residential kitchens may NOT be powered upon a shared (other outlets) small appliance branch circuit, in fact many require a individual branch circuit, those which do not, oftentimes require a dedicated one, one with limited other "outlets" not necessarily receptacles (sharing, 50% & 80% rules). Several can be supplied with a dedicated 15A @ 80%, some drawer units can be shared only with themselves on a dedicated 20A circuit, dedicated only to these appliances which are fixed in place.



nor does a switched receptacle for lighting purposes. Same rules apply in a kitchen. Frige has a special rule though.

The rest have to be SABCs though, either separate or an extension from the kitchen SABCs kitchen and the circuits can't leave the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar areas, no general use receptacles allowed except the switched one(s)

Not much room to wiggle here

The intent is that things like waffle irons, coffee pots, various warmers and such will be used in a dining room and the circuits are sized to handle them separately from other general use circuits in the house. Dining room circuits are small appliance branch circuits, and if separate from the kitchen SABCs must be accounted for in load calculations. With many AHJs limiting how many receptacles can be on a SABCs this can be an issue


Not quite.

The restriction is that no small appliance branch circuit may have an outlet in more than one "kitchen" (210.52(B)3), not that the SABC outlets be confined to THE kitchen itself!

There is no requirement for either required small appliance branch circuit present and serving countertop receptacles in the kitchen to have no other non-switched not fixed SMALL APPLIANCE RECEPTACLE outlets in any other room or area of the home which are 20 amp small appliance receptacles.

The SA circut which supplies "outlets" in A kitchen are not limited to THE kitchen! They can be in the dinning room, pantry, breakfast nook, etc. ("OR SIMILAR AREAS" such as a theater room or family room snack counter, etc.). They MUST, however, not be other than "small appliance RECEPTACLE outlets"(exceptions noted such as kitchen clock, etc.), IN the dwelling unit, and not be otherwise required to be on another specified or type of circuit, or otherwise restricted to be upon same. such as a lighting outlet, a switched receptacle, fixed equipment fastened in place (exceptions noted, still not exceeding 50%), laundry areas, bathroom areas, lighting or fixed transformers, etc.; and IF a Small Appliance branch circuit has an "outlet" in one kitchen, it may not have an "outlet" in another kitchen.

Neither does Small appliance branch circuit equate to GFCI protection.

The "dedication" is to the "small appliance receptacle function only type "outlet" IN the dwelling unit" and to NOT be supplying where a required specified, dedicated or individual circuit is otherwise specified. Furthermore the dedication of ONE kitchen per SA circuit limit outlets to the kitchen itself. This is where the NEC definition of what IS and IS NOT a kitchen comes into play. Simply not more than one "kitchen".

You can have a dwelling with small appliance receptacles at the countertops in one kitchen, dinning room SA receptacles, family room, breakfast nook, even a coffee counter alcove in the Master bedroom - all on two only SA circuits as long as receptacles at the kitchen countertop areas are powered by both SA circuits (not every area powered by both - just one receptacle at one countertop is required to be powered by the "other" SA circuit). and there is no outlet from either SA circuit powering an outlet in ANOTHER "kitchen". I'm not saying that its good design practice to do it, only that it is legal in a residence, in the unammended NEC.

There is no requirement that THE two minimum SA circuits required to power KITCHEN countertops be limited to outlets IN THE KITCHEN, nor that all SA receptacle outlets be GFCI protected. The limitation is that a particular SA branch circuit may have outlets in ONE kitchen. The outlets are NOT limited only to kitchen areas, just ONE kitchen amognst the room areas served and that the "outlets" be Small appliance receptacle outlets, and the specific exceptions noted (such as no general lighting, etc.). There is also no requirement that SA receptacle outlets be limited to the "specified" or specifically named room areas - there is no such specification. The "or similar areas" covers "similar areas", i.e. those desiring or requirng a small appliance receptacle, in a "similar areas".

The one kitchen area is for "units" which have more than one qualifying NEC defined "kitchen".

[Jim Port]

First we have someone that doesn't understand the difference between EGC and GEC, now we have someone trying to say a master bedroom is a "similar area" as a kitchen/dining room.

Except for a built-in Sub Zero refrigerator, I have yet to see a refrigerator that called for a dedicated circuit or whatever the hell a "limited" circuit is. In a survey at my house the 18 cubic foot is 7.1 amps and the newer 26 foot is 6.5 amps. Clearly either could be supplied from the SABC within the limits of the NEC.



Quote:
A refrigerator receptacle doesn't need to be on a SABC because of an exception,


You are confusing and muddling requirements and exceptions for GFCI protection and small appliance branch circuits. Most refrigerator/freezers employed in residential kitchens may NOT be powered upon a small appliance branch circuit, in fact most require an individual branch circuit, those which do not, oftentimes require a dedicated one, or one with limited other "outlets" not necessarily receptacles (sharing, 50% & 80% rules). Several can be supplied with a dedicated 15A @ 80%, some drawer units can be shared 2 on a dedicated 20A.

There is no confusion. There is an exception that allows the refrigerator to be supplied from one of the SABC or 'Exception No. 2: The receptacle outlet for refrigeration equipment shall be permitted to be supplied from an individual
branch circuit rated 15 amperes or greater.

[H.G. Watson, Sr.]

Still can't grasp the distinction between between "individual branch circuit" and what "dedicated" does and does not mean, can you?

A "coffee bar", even a wet bar with or without refrigeration equipment distinctively separate from a bathroom area en suite is not a bedroom area nor is it an NEC defined kitchen and still requires small appliance branch circuit outlets.

There is no restriction or prohibition from providing afci protection to a small appliance branch circuit, there is no requirement to have all small appliance branch circuit outlets provided with GFCI protection.

Dedicated as to purpose - i.e. small appliance outlets. Not dedicated to kitchen, not dedicated to countertops, not dedicated to a particular room.

Can be dedicated or limited to particular locations, number of outlets, specific equipment - such is a design consideration not an NEC requirement.

Each and every listed refrigerator, freezer, or combination refrigerator which is listed as being "recommended" to be on an INDIVIDUAL branch circuit of such and such amps (15 or 20) can in certain conditions exceed the 50/80% rule. Hence the manufacturer's and the listing standard's required (required by the listing standard) "recommendation" or "SHOULD" language. The equipment manufacturer has no power of law to issue an edict containing "SHALL" language. Neither the Standard authoring body, standards by the way are VOLUNTARY as to participation, the NTL, nor the manufacturer hold the power of LAW. The model NEC language requires that equipment be utilized, installed, etc. under itself and its listing and mfg instructions - but also provides for other engineered and designed "additional" or better than minimum. The NEC makes the mfg "recommendations" the mfg "SHOULDs" and the listed equipment's Standards' "SHOULDs" upgraded to SHALLs and SHALL NOTs as MINIMUM requirements when they exceed requirements otherwise provided for in the NEC.

Define "individual".

Define "dedicated". Cite use of the term "dedicated" in the NEC - as used in the NEC it has SEVERAL used, none of which limit to ONLY "Individual".

[Bill Kriegh]

There is a blurb in the NEC that says that it is not a manual for untrained persons. Watson has proved yet again that he doesn't understand whats printed in plain English -either that part or the one about SABCs.

The NEC says refrigeration equipment may be on a small appliance circuit or that it can be on a dedicated circuit specifically for refrigeration equipment. This IMPLYS that you can't run a general use circuit into the room to use for the purpose.

Similar areas means those used specifically for the storage or preparation of food, not living rooms or bedrooms which is why the list says similar areas at the end of a list that starts with kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, and dining room. If these circuits were permitted in other areas there would be no reason to differentiate between SABCs and general use circuits.

Maybe an E-mail to the NEC folks for clarification is in order by some folks, followed by some time at a code seminar or two. D*mn, a bedroom isn't a food prep area. Are you REALLY that dense?

[Derek Guridi]

A "coffee bar", even a wet bar with or without refrigeration equipment distinctively separate from a bathroom area en suite is not a bedroom area nor is it an NEC defined kitchen and still requires small appliance branch circuit outlets.


If this circuit is not in one of the areas defined in 210.52(A),(B),(C) as required by 210.11(C) -----it is not a SABC.

Plugging a small appliance into a circuit does not make it a SABC.

[Jim Port]

A "coffee bar", even a wet bar with or without refrigeration equipment distinctively separate from a bathroom area en suite is not a bedroom area nor is it an NEC defined kitchen and still requires small appliance branch circuit outlets.

Prove this with the actual NEC requirement.



Each and every listed refrigerator, freezer, or combination refrigerator which is listed as being "recommended" to be on an INDIVIDUAL branch circuit of such and such amps (15 or 20) can in certain conditions exceed the 50/80% rule. Hence the manufacturer's and the listing standard's required (required by the listing standard) "recommendation" or "SHOULD" language. The equipment manufacturer has no power of law to issue an edict containing "SHALL" language. Neither the Standard authoring body, standards by the way are VOLUNTARY as to participation, the NTL, nor the manufacturer hold the power of LAW. The model NEC language requires that equipment be utilized, installed, etc. under itself and its listing and mfg instructions - but also provides for other engineered and designed "additional" or better than minimum. The NEC makes the mfg "recommendations" the mfg "SHOULDs" and the listed equipment's Standards' "SHOULDs" upgraded to SHALLs and SHALL NOTs as MINIMUM requirements when they exceed requirements otherwise provided for in the NEC.

So you are saying a recommendation is somehow converted into a SHALL by the time it gets into the NEC? Horse hockey. It is nothing more than a suggestion similar to "I suggest you wear a raincoat while it rains". It is not required, but may be a good idea. Wait, maybe you should just come in out of the rain.

[Bill Kriegh]

If this circuit is not in one of the areas defined in 210.52(A),(B),(C) as required by 210.11(C) -----it is not a SABC.

Plugging a small appliance into a circuit does not make it a SABC.


EXACTLY

[Jim Port]

If this circuit is not in one of the areas defined in 210.52(A),(B),(C) as required by 210.11(C) -----it is not a SABC.

Plugging a small appliance into a circuit does not make it a SABC.

If I iron in my bedroom does that mean I need to install another laundry circuit? :confused:

[Derek Guridi]

If I iron in my bedroom does that mean I need to install another laundry circuit? :confused:

I dunno, what does your wife want?;)

[Jerry Peck]

What do you define as a SABC?

THAT is what I am asking YOU.


Why does a dining room have to be on a 20 amp circuit?

THAT is ALSO what I am asking YOU.


If you have a counter top in a dining room, does it need receptacles? Is this a SABC?

Where did the countertop come from, I am asking about the 20 amp circuit in the dining room - nothing was mentioned about any countertop.


If I run a circuit just for the wall receptacles in the kitchen and and dining room, why does it have to be on a 20 amp circuit?

Please go back and re-read my questions, you are covering some of the questions as questions, not with answers.

[Jerry Peck]

I have answered you. The wall receptacles in the dining area are a SABC. That is why they are on a 20 amp circuit.

That is not why they are on a 20 amp circuit.

Those receptacles are on a 20 amp circuit simply because I wanted all the circuits to be 20 amp circuits throughout the house.

So, you are saying that ALL the circuits are SABC just because they are ALL 20 amp circuits?

[Jerry Peck]

If this circuit is not in one of the areas defined in 210.52(A),(B),(C) as required by 210.11(C) -----it is not a SABC.

Now we are getting someplace, at least that is a start.

Now state your answer to the opposite aspect: *just because* a circuit is a a 20 amp branch circuit and *just because* it is one of the areas mentioned ... *IS* that circuit a SABC?

Remember, the code says "in addition to" back up in the code sections I posted.

[Derek Guridi]

That is not why they are on a 20 amp circuit.

Those receptacles are on a 20 amp circuit simply because I wanted all the circuits to be 20 amp circuits throughout the house.

So, you are saying that ALL the circuits are SABC just because they are ALL 20 amp circuits?

No, they are not on a 20 amp circuit because that is what you wanted. They cannot be on a general purpose 15 or 20 amp circuit.

If this a separate circuit by itself or goes into pantry and such, it is just another SABC.

Lets start with 210.52(A)(3):

(3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. Receptacles installed
in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall be
supplied by not fewer than two small-appliance branch circuits,
either or both of which shall also be permitted to
supply receptacle outlets in the same kitchen and in other
rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). Additional small appliance
branch circuits shall be permitted to supply receptacle
outlets in the kitchen and other rooms specified in
210.52(B)(1). No small-appliance branch circuit shall serve
more than one kitchen.

Now lets go here:

210.52(B)(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.


Code only requires 2 SABC, but you are welcome to add more.

[Derek Guridi]

Now we are getting someplace, at least that is a start.

Now state your answer to the opposite aspect: *just because* a circuit is a a 20 amp branch circuit and *just because* it is one of the areas mentioned ... *IS* that circuit a SABC?

Remember, the code says "in addition to" back up in the code sections I posted.

See above reply to other post.

Not every 20 amp circuit in those areas is a SABC. Circuits/receptacles for DW,range hoods,disposers, and such are not SABC and they cannot be on a SABC.

Those circuits can also be 15 amp.

[Derek Guridi]

How about it JP, you gonna come out and play or not?:D


http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jphotos_2009/imagesqtbnANd9GcS1SxpM_xKlt3-5ig2y8GIvar4nVQKnJIjdpR6I-Rftu3Jp1mMy.jpg

[Jerry Peck]

Derek,

I realize that you know what you thought you meant to write, but what you wrote is not what you thought you were writing ...

No, they are not on a 20 amp circuit because that is what you wanted. They cannot be on a general purpose 15 or 20 amp circuit.

Those receptacles to which I am referring *ARE* on a general purpose 20 amp circuit *BECAUSE I WANT* those circuits to be 20 amp general purpose circuits, I am not wiring *ANY* 15 amp circuits in the house.


If this a separate circuit by itself or goes into pantry and such, it is just another SABC.

Where did "pantry" come from? I keep saying "dining room".


Lets start with 210.52(A)(3):

No, let's start with answering the questions I've asked, not making up a different question and trying to sidetrack the discussion. You HAVE YET to answer one of my questions, this is beginning to feel like I am conversing with Watson. :eek:

[Jerry Peck]

See above reply to other post.

Yes, see above replay to your other post.


Not every 20 amp circuit in those areas is a SABC.

Okay, now we are progressing.

I wire THE ENTIRE FRIGGIN' HOUSE with 20 amps circuits. Got that?

NONE of the 20 amp circuits in the "dining room" are SABC, they are all the required general purpose receptacle circuits with some lighting outlets on separate 20 amp circuits (remember, there are NO 15 amp circuits in the house - because "that is what I want"). Got that?

Following so far?

[Jerry Peck]

How about it JP, you gonna come out and play or not?:D


http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jphotos_2009/imagesqtbnANd9GcS1SxpM_xKlt3-5ig2y8GIvar4nVQKnJIjdpR6I-Rftu3Jp1mMy.jpg

Hey, I'm working all day, then I rest, then I eat, then ... I go on the computer to play ... :D

[Bill Kriegh]

I'm reading, and think I follow but I'm getting mixed signals on what you call what.

Jerry, you can put all the 20 AMP circuits you want in a dining room. Heck, put every receptacle on a different one. By virtue of the fact they are in a dining room they are a SABC IF they serve a wall, counter, or floor receptacle. It's just that simple. They don't have to go to the kitchen first, or at all, to be a SABC. Receptacles under a counter installed to serve fixed appliances are not SABCs, nor those in a cupboard. I think we have refrigerators sorted out at this point

No other 20 AMP circuits from any other part of the house (SABCs excepted) can serve any of the wall, counter, or floor receptacles in the dining room, unless switched (this is really for lighting purposes but the "book" doesn't specify this use - these could even be 15s).

None of the wall, counter, or floor receptacles in the dining room can go anywhere else but the kitchen, pantry, etc.

If this isn't what you have going on I need some splainin'

The circuits that serve SABCs are anticipated to have heavier loads than general use circuits and are required to be 20 AMP. They also require a calculation for each as part of a load calculation for service size where none of your other 20 AMP circuits would require anything beyond the calculation for them based on square footage. Many AHJs have local amendments that limit the number of receptacles on a SABC and drive up the number of required circuits, and in some cases drive up panel size..

[Derek Guridi]

Okay Jerry, I have defined what I say is a SABC.

I will restate it if you want.

You tell me what you define as a SABC.:confused:

Do not compare me to H.G.Watson:mad:, I am playing fair and square.

Prove me wrong and I will concede. It will not happen on this point.:) At least I hope not....

I will make a deal with you. You back your opinion with a registered authority and I will also. This going in circles is going nowhere.

I choose Chris/Raider1 from here. Mike Holt's Code Forum - Moderators (http://forums.mikeholt.com/moderators.html)

Who is your choice?

Edit: I got a better idea . I just noticed you are in Florida. There is a Fl. IAEI code forum and I am a member. I will take this to them.

[Derek Guridi]

I'm reading, and think I follow but I'm getting mixed signals on what you call what.

Jerry, you can put all the 20 AMP circuits you want in a dining room. Heck, put every receptacle on a different one. By virtue of the fact they are in a dining room they are a SABC IF they serve a wall, counter, or floor receptacle. It's just that simple. They don't have to go to the kitchen first, or at all, to be a SABC. Receptacles under a counter installed to serve fixed appliances are not SABCs, nor those in a cupboard. I think we have refrigerators sorted out at this point

No other 20 AMP circuits from any other part of the house (SABCs excepted) can serve any of the wall, counter, or floor receptacles in the dining room, unless switched (this is really for lighting purposes but the "book" doesn't specify this use - these could even be 15s).

None of the wall, counter, or floor receptacles in the dining room can go anywhere else but the kitchen, pantry, etc.

If this isn't what you have going on I need some splainin'

The circuits that serve SABCs are anticipated to have heavier loads than general use circuits and are required to be 20 AMP. They also require a calculation for each as part of a load calculation for service size where none of your other 20 AMP circuits would require anything beyond the calculation for them based on square footage. Many AHJs have local amendments that limit the number of receptacles on a SABC and drive up the number of required circuits, and in some cases drive up panel size..

Yes, yes and yes.

[Jerry Peck]

Jerry, you can put all the 20 AMP circuits you want in a dining room. Heck, put every receptacle on a different one. By virtue of the fact they are in a dining room they are a SABC IF they serve a wall, counter, or floor receptacle. It's just that simple.

Bill,

Okay, that is what I am asking about - now, what section of the code defines them as SABC, remember, the code allows 15 amp and 20 amp receptacles for general purpose receptacles, and that the SABC receptacles *are in addition too* those general purpose receptacles.

Ready for that code section which states what you just said.

(bold and underlining are mine)

No other 20 AMP circuits from any other part of the house (SABCs excepted) can serve any of the wall, counter, or floor receptacles in the dining room, unless switched (this is really for lighting purposes but the "book" doesn't specify this use - these could even be 15s).

Okay again, where it that in the NEC?


None of the wall, counter, or floor receptacles in the dining room can go anywhere else but the kitchen, pantry, etc.

Again, code section please.

As I read the NEC, unless I keep missing it, I have not found anything which says what you just said above.

[Jerry Peck]

Yes, yes and yes.

Code section, code section, code section. :)

[Jim Port]

I might be missing some of the conversation, but the SABC are by virtue of their location in the kitchen/dining etc. Any other circuit, even if 20 amp and not dedicated, would just be a 20 amp general purpose circuit.

Jerry, are you asking where this is spelled out?

[Jerry Peck]

Jerry, are you asking where this is spelled out?

Jim,

Yes sir.

I am asking about, as one example, the entire house being wired with 20 amp general purpose receptacles (which is allowed) and specifically a dining room *which has no receptacles on a circuit which goes to the kitchen*.

I know that the kitchen SABC *are allowed* to extend into the dinging room.

I also know that the kitchen SABC *are not required* to extend into the dining room.

I also know that kitchen SABC which extend into the dining are *in addition to* the required general purpose receptacles.

I cannot find (I may missing it) where *ALL* 20 amp receptacle outlet circuits in the dining room are required to be considered SABC.

[Derek Guridi]

Jim,

Yes sir.

I am asking about, as one example, the entire house being wired with 20 amp general purpose receptacles (which is allowed) and specifically a dining room *which has no receptacles on a circuit which goes to the kitchen*.

I know that the kitchen SABC *are allowed* to extend into the dinging room.

I also know that the kitchen SABC *are not required* to extend into the dining room.

I also know that kitchen SABC which extend into the dining are *in addition to* the required general purpose receptacles.

I cannot find (I may missing it) where *ALL* 20 amp receptacle outlet circuits in the dining room are required to be considered SABC.

Unless you have an individual circuit dedicated to a specific appliance, such as an A/C or such:
210.52(B) Small Appliances.
(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.

[Jerry Peck]

Wrong highlighting:


Unless you have an individual circuit dedicated to a specific appliance, such as an A/C or such:

210.52(B) Small Appliances.
(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.


- 210.11(C)(1)
- - (C) Dwelling Units.
- - - (1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section, two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits shall be provided for all receptacle outlets specified by 210.52(B).

That DOES NOT say that any and all 20 amp receptacle outlet circuits in a dining room SHALL BE SABC.

That only says that TWO OR MORE ... does not say ALL ... TWO OR MORE shall be provided.

That means you MUST provide TWO ... AND ONLY TWO ARE "SHALL" ... BUT AT LEAST TWO ... and more IF YOU SO CHOSE ... small appliance branch circuits ... AND ... go back to the FIRST PART of the sentence in 210.11(C)(1) ... IN ADDITION TO the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section - and that means that THE DINING ROOM MAY BE PROVIDED WITH BRANCH CIRCUITS OTHER THAN the SABC, and that the SABC ARE "IN ADDITION TO" those other circuits, and those other circuits MAY BE 20 AMP CIRCUITS.

There is nothing which states otherwise.

That is why you go back to the beginning of 201.11 Branch Circuits Required and read that part, then read (A), then read (B), THEN read (C).

210.11(C) is "In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section,", and "this section" refers to 210.11, and 210.11 includes the part after 210.11 before (A), and includes (A), and includes (B), and includes (C).

Okay, so you have now shown why *I* am correct :p , but what I asked you for was for the code section that backs up and supports what *YOU* say is required. :p :)

[Bill Kriegh]

Jerry, in the areas in question general use receptacles are not permitted unless switched. This means there are no (shouldn't be any) general use receptacles in the dining room for the SABCs to be in addition to.

The language in 210.52 B says that he provisions in 210.52 A. apply to all the receptacles in the dining room. Those provisions say nothing about what kind of circuit is required in the areas, only what the rules for placement are.

210.52 B then says those receptacles must be served by a SABC in the dining room. It says ALL. This means a living room circuit can't serve the dining room. It then says the SABCs shall have no other outlets (only allowed in similar areas, ie kitchen, pantry). This means that the circuit can't continue to the living room for use on receptacles or lighting. This is also the blurb that tells you under counter lighting and such can't be on the circuit either.

All the references are from 210.52 A and B, mostly B.

The thing that states otherwise is :
(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.

The NEC is seldom clearer in intent than here.

[Jim Port]

The way I read those sections is that in addition to any circuits required in the living, bedrooms etc, that there must be a minimum of 2 SASBC in the kitchen, dining etc. I don't really see this as much different than either the required bathroom receptacle or laundry circuits. This requirement is over and above the requirements for general use circuits.

Maybe I am missing the point of contention.

[Jerry Peck]

This means a living room circuit can't serve the dining room. It then says the SABCs shall have no other outlets (only allowed in similar areas, ie kitchen, pantry). This means that the circuit can't continue to the living room for use on receptacles or lighting. This is also the blurb that tells you under counter lighting and such can't be on the circuit either.

I'll have to digest this more when I read it tomorrow, I'm going all loopy right now, but ... you are starting to make sense ... :eek: THAT is scary!

And if you are correct, I have not been checking for that - let me read your stuff, and Derek's stuff, again tomorrow with a fresh mind. :(

[Derek Guridi]

The way I read those sections is that in addition to any circuits required in the living, bedrooms etc, that there must be a minimum of 2 SASBC in the kitchen, dining etc. I don't really see this as much different than either the required bathroom receptacle or laundry circuits. This requirement is over and above the requirements for general use circuits.

Maybe I am missing the point of contention.

Jim, if you have the required 20 amp circuit and receptacle to a bathroom, can you put a convenience receptacle off a general purpose circuit in it?

Loaded question: I read a ROP that says no.

[Derek Guridi]

Jerry, in the areas in question general use receptacles are not permitted unless switched. This means there are no (shouldn't be any) general use receptacles in the dining room for the SABCs to be in addition to.

The language in 210.52 B says that he provisions in 210.52 A. apply to all the receptacles in the dining room. Those provisions say nothing about what kind of circuit is required in the areas, only what the rules for placement are.

210.52 B then says those receptacles must be served by a SABC in the dining room. It says ALL. This means a living room circuit can't serve the dining room. It then says the SABCs shall have no other outlets (only allowed in similar areas, ie kitchen, pantry). This means that the circuit can't continue to the living room for use on receptacles or lighting. This is also the blurb that tells you under counter lighting and such can't be on the circuit either.

All the references are from 210.52 A and B, mostly B.

The thing that states otherwise is :
(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.

The NEC is seldom clearer in intent than here.

Yes, yes and yes.

[Derek Guridi]

I'll have to digest this more when I read it tomorrow, I'm going all loopy right now, but ... you are starting to make sense ... :eek: THAT is scary!

And if you are correct, I have not been checking for that - let me read your stuff, and Derek's stuff, again tomorrow with a fresh mind. :(

Finally!!!:)

[Bill Kriegh]

Jim, if you have the required 20 amp circuit and receptacle to a bathroom, can you put a convenience receptacle off a general purpose circuit in it?

Loaded question: I read a ROP that says no.

Not loaded at all

210.11(C) Dwelling Units

(3) Bathroom Branch Circuits. In addition to the number
of branch circuits required by other parts of this section, at
least one 20-ampere branch circuit shall be provided to
supply bathroom receptacle outlet(s). Such circuits shall
have no other outlets.

I read this as at least one circuit must be installed to supply bathroom receptacles, and says the bathroom circuit can't go ( or come from) anywhere else (except another bathroom in certain cases). The rule says "circuits" and that should be any present in the bathroom.

[Jim Port]

Jim, if you have the required 20 amp circuit and receptacle to a bathroom, can you put a convenience receptacle off a general purpose circuit in it?

Loaded question: I read a ROP that says no.

I remember part of this at MH. I believe it was posed about a 15 amp circuit under each window for holiday lighting. Sitting here with the first cup of coffee I don't see why you couldn't. The 15 amp is over and above the minimum of the receptacle within 36" of the basin. Or was it something about the bathroom receptacle circuits needing to be 20 amp? Can you post the ROP?

[Michael Thomas]

One overlooked possibility: the inspector was correct for the community in which the property is located.

For example in my community the AJH will not allow GFCI protection of kitchen counter receptacles by means of a GFCI breaker or another upstream counter receptacle (except in the same box), they want a GFCI receptacle at every box above a counter which requires GFCI protecton, and ... "You can't fight city hall"!

Or, to give another example, in the next suburb over, you can connect a dewatering sump discharge to the sanitary sewer in some parts of the community, but not others.

So perhaps the inspector was literally correct when he stated that this arrangement was "illegal" at this property.

[Derek Guridi]

I remember part of this at MH. I believe it was posed about a 15 amp circuit under each window for holiday lighting. Sitting here with the first cup of coffee I don't see why you couldn't. The 15 amp is over and above the minimum of the receptacle within 36" of the basin. Or was it something about the bathroom receptacle circuits needing to be 20 amp? Can you post the ROP?

Yep. That is the thread. I will go find the ROP.

[Derek Guridi]

Here it is. 2011 ROP.

2-149 Log #3569 NEC-P02 Final Action: Reject
(210.11(C)(3))
__________________________________________________ _____________
Submitter: George M. Stolz, II, Pierce, CO
Recommendation: Revise text to read as follows:
(3) Bathroom Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of branch circuits
required by other parts of this section, at least one 20-ampere branch circuit
shall be provided to supply the bathroom receptacle outlet(s) required by
210.52(D). Such circuits shall have no other outlets.

Substantiation: A code-minimum installation calls for a receptacle installed
within 3 ft of a bathroom sink, served by a circuit dedicated for that purpose.
When someone adds a voluntary and permitted receptacle for lighting or other
purposes in the bathroom above and beyond the minimum expectations of the
NEC, there is no reason to consider them the required bathroom receptacles
that are required to be served from the required circuit.
As the text currently stands, it can be interpreted that every circuit that serves
a receptacle in the bathroom (regardless of the designer’s intent for that circuit)
must be served from a 20A circuit that serves only bathrooms.
This would have no impact on GFCI requirements as posed by other sections.
It would serve to clarify the section and the minimum code-required
receptacles it should be referencing. The proposed language would also serve
to isolate the required receptacles from other loads away from the sinks, if this
effect is undesirable an exception permitting other receptacles inside the
bathroom to be served would counteract that. Additional receptacle outlets
installed to meet design criteria need not meet the requirements of this article.

Panel Meeting Action: Reject
Panel Statement: The current rule permits the 20A bathroom circuit to supply
all receptacle outlets installed in the bathroom, whether they are installed to
meet 210.52(D) or are in addition to the ones required by 210.52(D). The
submitters notation that every receptacle outlet in the bathroom must be
supplied from a 20A bathroom branch circuit is correct and is intended by the
panel. However, there is no limitation on the number of 20A branch circuits
that can be used in the bathroom.
Number Eligible to Vote: 12
Ballot Results: Affirmative: 12

[H.G. Watson, Sr.]

When was a "dedicated" kitchen circuit first required? Some info I have says 1959. The problem is a neighbor selling house built in 1990. The dining room receptacles are wired with 12ga and on the same 20 Amp circuit as the kitchen. When they bought the house, there wasn't a GFCI in the kitchen period. One was added to the circuit when they bought the house in 2006. A home inspector tripped the kitchen GFCI and found that the dining room receptacles were off and went back on when the GFCI was reset.Said it was illegal.

S.B.:

As far as I can recall at the moment, "A 20A 120V dedicated KITCHEN circuit" has never been required in the NEC. There are specified requirements and exceptions for providing individual branch circuits for particular circumstances/equipment requirements/ratings but they are not limited to residential kitchens. Dedicated (single) Bathroom circuit or dedicated (multiple) bathrooms receptacle circuit yes, a dedicated laundry area circuit, yes, but not ever a dedicated to the only THE kitchen multi-outlet circuit required. Circuit or circuits dedicated to receptacles serving small appliances allowed to have outlets in multiple rooms, but the outlets dedicated to small appliance receptacles (with a few exceptions now, such as: igniters for gas ranges, stoves or cooktops; dedicated wall clock outlet, and permissive use for household/residential self-contained refrigeration equipment). As the years have progressed the former SABC for laundry area has been reclassified as a laundry circuit and must be dedicated to that specific use/purpose/area, but not so for kitchens. The sole dedication/restriction as to kitchens was and has been that same is limited to outlets in only ONE kitchen but may share outlets in OTHER rooms, areas, etc. Which means if there is more than one NEC defined KITCHEN area in a dwelling unit, a particular SABC may not have outlets in more than one kitchen. Nothing contrary to the UNAMMENDED NEC of any edition is indicated from your description - unless the AFCI protection required at dining rooms was not also provided. There is no prohibition to provide AFCI protection in any area of a dwelling unit as long as where required GFCI protection is also provided. As long as there were no switched receptacles co-mingled in the shared SABC which were present to provide GENERAL LIGHTING as an exception to a switched wall or ceiling light fixture/luminaire and the circuit was DEDICATED to SABC, the receptacles were readily accessible and located at walls, floors, within 20" above, or unlimited below counter areas and not above 5 (iirc) feet from the floor, not behind doors, drawers, in cabinetry, etc..

I forget exactly which NEC edition, but somewhere in the time frame between the late 70s and 93 countertops in a particular kitchen needed to be supplied from more than one SABC. At some point a SABC was restricted to be one of 20A rating, no longer 15A was acceptable. Don't move my library seasonally, and don't remember the actual dates. In 1987 the NEC required all receptacle outlets near kitchen sinks (6' arc) be GFCI protected; In 1996 all kitchen receptacles serving a countertop were required to be GFCI protected. The unammended NEC does not expressly limit the total number of receptacles on a SABC in a dwelling unit; however it does require load and demand calculations.

Not circuits dedicated to kitchens but branch circuits which were dedicated to small appliance 15- or 20- amp 120V receptacle outlets, has been required at least as far back as the 1962 NEC, and has been required to calculate load as 1500 watts (now clarified as 1500 va) as a demand or continuous duty load.


220-4(h) In single-family dwellings, in individual apartments of multi-family dwellings having provisiions for cooling by tenants, and in each hotel suite having a serving pantry, a feeder load of not less than 1500 watts for each two-wire circuit installed as required by section 220-39(b) shall be included for small appliances (portable appliance supplied from receptacles of 15 or 20 ampere rating) in pantry and breakfast-room, dining room, kitchen and laundry. Where the load is sub-divided through two or more feeders, the computed load for each shall include not less than 1500 watts for each two-wire circuit for small appliances, these loads may be included with the general lighting load and subject to the demand factors in section 220-4(a).
Keep in mind that back then and through the mid 80s cycles general lighting circuits were kept separate from readily accessible receptacle circuits, excepting only those receptacles incorporated into the equipment such as light fixtures, medicine cabinets, etc. and those convenience shaver, etc. receptacles could still be 2-blade type but had to be polarized. 1962 was also the year that required equipment grounding conductors for 15- and 20-amp 120V receptacle circuits, grounded type receptacles, etc. throughout a home. (1947 required grounded type (3-blade) receptacles for the laundry; 1956 required same for basements, outdoors, garages)

IIRC the discussions regarding SABCs and location outlets required was moved from Art. 220 to 210 in either the 93, 96 or 99 NEC. From the 80s through the 1999 the style was transitioning to be from that of prohibition statements with loads of exceptions, to one of proscribed requirements with fewer and permissive exceptions.

in 1999 for example the discussion read thusly:

Kitchen Countertop Receptacles, Two Circuits Required. 125 volt, 15, or 20 ampere receptacles used for countertop surface appliances in a dwelling unit kitchen must be supplied by at least two 20 ampere circuits [210-11(c)(1) and 220-16(a)]. These small appliance branch circuits can supply receptacles in the kitchen as well as the pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or other similar areas where food is likely to be served.


Reference to number of receptacle outlets required in family dwellings first
appeared in the 1933 NEC. New Article 20, Wiring Installation Design, included Section 2012 for Adequacy Provisions in Residential Occupancies.

Up until the late 70s Kitchen receptacles often supplied by a single 15A or 20A circuit.

1999 References (via Mike Holt's Newsletter March 2000):
Kitchen Countertop Receptacles, Two Circuits Required. 125 volt, 15, or 20 ampere receptacles used for countertop surface appliances in a dwelling unit kitchen must be supplied by at least two 20 ampere circuits [210-11(c)(1) and 220-16(a)]. These small appliance branch circuits can supply receptacles in the kitchen as well as the pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or other similar areas where food is likely to be served.

Switched receptacles/outlets for general lighting have never been allowed on (dedicated as to purpose) small appliance branch circuits. General purpose circuits are not SABCs.

HTH in your endeavors as you refine your question(s) and narrow down your own research.

[Jim Port]

S.B.:

As far as I can recall at the moment, "A 20A 120V dedicated KITCHEN circuit" has never been required in the NEC. There are specified requirements and exceptions for providing individual branch circuits for particular circumstances/equipment requirements/ratings but they are not limited to residential kitchens. Dedicated (single) Bathroom circuit or dedicated (multiple) bathrooms receptacle circuit yes, a dedicated laundry area circuit, yes, but not ever a dedicated to the only THE kitchen multi-outlet circuit required. Circuit or circuits dedicated to receptacles serving small appliances allowed to have outlets in multiple rooms, but the outlets dedicated to small appliance receptacles (with a few exceptions now, such as: igniters for gas ranges, stoves or cooktops; dedicated wall clock outlet, and permissive use for household/residential self-contained refrigeration equipment). As the years have progressed the former SABC for laundry area has been reclassified as a laundry circuit and must be dedicated to that specific use/purpose/area, but not so for kitchens. The sole dedication/restriction as to kitchens was and has been that same is limited to outlets in only ONE kitchen but may share outlets in OTHER rooms, areas, etc. Which means if there is more than one NEC defined KITCHEN area in a dwelling unit, a particular SABC may not have outlets in more than one kitchen.

Just another example of a code quote being taken out of context.


The unammended NEC does not expressly limit the total number of receptacles on a SABC in a dwelling unit; however it does require load and demand calculations.

Not circuits dedicated to kitchens but branch circuits which were dedicated to small appliance 15- or 20- amp 120V receptacle outlets, has been required at least as far back as the 1962 NEC, and has been required to calculate load as 1500 watts (now clarified as 1500 va) as a demand or continuous duty load.


220-4(h) In single-family dwellings, in individual apartments of multi-family dwellings having provisiions for cooling by tenants, and in each hotel suite having a serving pantry, a feeder load of not less than 1500 watts for each two-wire circuit installed as required by section 220-39(b) shall be included for small appliances (portable appliance supplied from receptacles of 15 or 20 ampere rating) in pantry and breakfast-room, dining room, kitchen and laundry. Where the load is sub-divided through two or more feeders, the computed load for each shall include not less than 1500 watts for each two-wire circuit for small appliances, these loads may be included with the general lighting load and subject to the demand factors in section 220-4(a).

I am sure that the OP was not asking about how to calculate the service or what the calculated load was for the SABCs.



Keep in mind that back then and through the mid 80s cycles general lighting circuits were kept separate from readily accessible receptacle circuits, excepting only those receptacles incorporated into the equipment such as light fixtures, medicine cabinets, etc. and those convenience shaver, etc. receptacles could still be 2-blade type but had to be polarized. 1962 was also the year that required equipment grounding conductors for 15- and 20-amp 120V receptacle circuits, grounded type receptacles, etc. throughout a home. (1947 required grounded type (3-blade) receptacles for the laundry; 1956 required same for basements, outdoors, garages)

And how is this germane to the discussion as posed by the OP?



1999 References (via Mike Holt's Newsletter March 2000):
Kitchen Countertop Receptacles, Two Circuits Required. 125 volt, 15, or 20 ampere receptacles used for countertop surface appliances in a dwelling unit kitchen must be supplied by at least two 20 ampere circuits [210-11(c)(1) and 220-16(a)]. These small appliance branch circuits can supply receptacles in the kitchen as well as the pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or other similar areas where food is likely to be served.

Even using this definition I doubt that any reasonable person would consider a bedroom as an area where food is likely to be served as was proposed in other posts. Does a beer and pretzles in the living room make it a "similar area"?

[H.G. Watson, Sr.]

Just another example of a code quote being taken out of context.

[u]

I am sure that the OP was not asking about how to calculate the service or what the calculated load was for the SABCs.
[/indent]
And how is this germane to the discussion as posed by the OP?





Even using this definition I doubt that any reasonable person would consider a bedroom as an area where food is likely to be served as was proposed in other posts.

Ensuite "food preparation areas" include coffee makers, microwaves, toaster/toaster ovens, etc. and are often found at counters installed in nooks in Master Bedroom suites, guest room suites, and servant or in-law suites which are NOT considered (NEC defined) Kitchens. Installation of refrigerators, even small ones, in residential occupancies in areas which are not "kitchens" is similarly addressed. Same can often be found in recreation rooms (even home theaters), family rooms, bedroom SUITES, "SUN ROOMS", three-season rooms, etc. All require SABC receptacles (exception for refrigeration equipment which may otherwise be provided with an individual branch circuit).

In areas in which zoning prohibits the establishment of full "in law apartments", etc. or subdividing single family residential; etc. and the fact that the NEC also addresses such food preparation and/or food serving areas in OTHER than "KITCHENS or KITCHEN AREAS", the NEC Does address this.

That your exposure or experience is so glaringly limited, is no reason to presume that the "world" is similarly limited, or for that matter that the NEC has the same "blinders" on that YOU do.

The SABC is a dedicated circuit, it is dedicated to small appliance receptacles. It may NOT include lighting, receptacles (switched) serving as general lighting "outlets", ceiling fans, or be mixed with general use circuits. The discussion has taken many turns, including declarations which are untrue regarding Small Appliance Branch Circuits, and what they are and are not, and including an undefensible position by Peck that dining room wall receptacles can be combined with all other outlets in a dining room and not be upon a dedicated (as to the restrictions of) a SABC.

The OP has indicated or postulated that there is or was an unammended NEC requirement to have a circuit dedicated to the kitchen location. There is not. Individual branch circuits are not small appliance branch circuits.

The better understanding of demand and load calculations and understanding the minimums and design factors are important to understanding the language of the NEC, most especially the older editions. As in the past the NEC was drafted and geared more towards minimum design requirements - and scads of "recommendations". The NEC has taken differing editorial style positions over the decades, understanding the history of the developing language over the many decades is important to understanding the meaning.

The topics organized under parts, articles, chapters has changed many times over the years. Knowing where to find what one is looking for in an older edition is helpful to the "newer" or "less experienced" researcher.

I really don't care what Port or Kreigh do or do not think, understand, claims to think or understand, etc. But they unfortunately oftentimes make blatantly false statements/conclusions on such matters, such as earlier in this discussion B.K. claimed there was a NEC restriction for SABCs serving a kitchen to not have a SABC outlet in another qualifed location other than another NEC qualified kitchen, and this is patently UNTRUE.

IF and only if the jurisdiction has adopted the NEC, AND the jurisdiction has further ammended the model language to have incorporated a restriction that made the OP's description "ILLEGAL" would there be a legality problem. The unammended NEC of any vintage is not law. It must be adopted (and is oftentimes ammended even if only minimally so as to name the authority) as applicable law for anything contrary to be illegal.

[Jim Port]

Jerry, Derek,

I have posted the code articles being discussed and then substituted the 210.52(B) with a listing of rooms into one passage.

The unedited is shown first for reference and the combined is shown in blue.


(C) Dwelling Units.
(1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the
number of branch circuits required by other parts of this
section, two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits
shall be provided for all receptacle outlets specified by
210.52(B).

(B) Small Appliances.
(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch
circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop
outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for
refrigeration equipment.
Exception No. 1: In addition to the required receptacles
specified by 210.52, switched receptacles supplied from a
general-purpose branch circuit as defined in 210.70(A)(1),
Exception No. 1, shall be permitted.
Exception No. 2: The receptacle outlet for refrigeration
equipment shall be permitted to be supplied from an individual
branch circuit rated 15 amperes or greater.
(2) No Other Outlets. The two or more small-appliance
branch circuits specified in 210.52(B)(1) shall have no
other outlets.
Exception No. 1: A receptacle installed solely for the electrical
supply to and support of an electric clock in any of
the rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1).
Exception No. 2: Receptacles installed to provide power
for supplemental equipment and lighting on gas-fired
ranges, ovens, or counter-mounted cooking units.
(3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. Receptacles installed
in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall be
supplied by not fewer than two small-appliance branch circuits,
either or both of which shall also be permitted to supply
receptacle outlets in the same kitchen and in other rooms
specified in 210.52(B)(1). Additional small-appliance branch
circuits shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the
kitchen and other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). No smallappliance
branch circuit shall serve more than one kitchen.

Combining the two sections, I come up with this.

(B)(2) No Other Outlets. The two or more small-appliance
branch circuits specified in the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit shall have no other outlets.


(B)(3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. Receptacles installed
in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall be
supplied by not fewer than two small-appliance branch circuits,
either or both of which shall also be permitted to supply
receptacle outlets in the same kitchen and in pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit. Additional small-appliance branch circuits shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the
kitchen and other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). No small appliance branch circuit shall serve more than one kitchen.

[Bill Kriegh]

I am just amazed at the stuff Watson comes up with.

I can put a counter in a bedroom and use it for a hot plate, a microwave, a computer, a desk light, charging the cell phone, an alarm clock, and a whole number of other uses. The fact I put a microwave on the counter and plug it in has not altered the fact that the room is a bedroom with a counter. An AHJ has no way of knowing how the counter will be/is being used unless they continuously monitor with a camera or 24/7 on site inspector.

Now, if the builder is conscious of the fact that the first occupant intends to use the counter for a microwave, or indeed, even a computer server, he is certainly free to install a circuit(s) dedicated to that receptacle (or receptacles) on/by/near/above/below that counter rated at whatever current the anticipated load is.

However, if we have a SABC extending from the kitchen to this receptacle because somebody "might" use a microwave, we have defeated the intent of the SABC requirement should the lady of the house mount a mirror above said counter and use it for blow driers, curling irons, and such. This is why you do NOT have a small appliance branch circuit in a bedroom. Add another circuit if you want to handle an anticipated load. It simply CAN NOT be a SABC because the area is not a permanent area for the storage, preparation and consumption of food. Period. Or, are you saying a SABC is required/needed in a bedroom and the required sign that says the receptacle is reserved for small appliance use and/or cooking was overlooked by the code folks? Call the circuit what it is - a circuit required for anticipated loads, which is required by the NEC anyway. It is in no way a SABC.

It's pretty evident some of us have been doing this a long time and have a da**site better grip on what the intent of the NEC is than you do or ever will have. You most certainly are NOT the wordly expert on all things you pretend to be and anybody with an ounce of sense can see that. I do not care if you were ever in a position to make determinations on some of these matters. Even if you have the education and qualifications to do so your interpretations of virtually everything fly in the face of common sense and reason. Do you really think none of have requested interpretations from the NFPA folks of many of these things because we had a jerk like you spewing whatever came to mind to prove some sort of a superior position over the rest of us?

I'm really interested in knowing how you come up with this crap. Irrelevant code references and fancy references to "I think I'll have breakfast in bed this morning" just don't cut it.

There's no doubt in my mind that you can have pertinent contribution to a lot of discussions and if you were content to do that instead of try to control and confuse the issue the readers would be better served.

[Derek Guridi]

(B)(2) No Other Outlets. The two or more small-appliance
branch circuits specified in the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit shall have no other outlets.


(B)(3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. Receptacles installed
in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall be
supplied by not fewer than two small-appliance branch circuits,
either or both of which shall also be permitted to supply
receptacle outlets in the same kitchen and in pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit. Additional small-appliance branch circuits shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the
kitchen and other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). No small appliance branch circuit shall serve more than one kitchenThis works for me Jim.

.

[H.G. Watson, Sr.]

"
So ... I ask you again ... is it your position that ALL the 20 ampere receptacles in the "kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area" are required to be small appliance branch circuits?

Nope, just the required ones serving the wall spaces and counter tops.

Are you also telling me that every "kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area" requires two or more small appliance branch circuits?

Nope, two only for serving all the required ones in all the areas would work, I will even let you put the fridge on one of them.

"



Okay ... what walls spaces in a dining room are *required* to have SABC?

In *addition to* the general use receptacles.

Are you saying (I keep trying to get you to answer this) that EVERY 20 amp circuit I put in a dining room IS REQUIRED to be a SABC? That I cannot run a 20 amp general purpose circuit to the living room, dining room, breakfast room, family room - that ALL of those circuits ARE REQUIRED to be considered SABC?

That is the question I keep asking and you keep *not* answering. You are dancing around the bush, that is for sure, but you are *not* answering it.

Improper question because it is based upon an improper presumption.

NO "general use" receptacles are allowed below 5-1/2 feet as the REQUIRED wall receptacles, those floor receptacles, or counter area receptacles in a dining room.

Dedicated receptacles for fixed or specific equipment, individual branch circuit supplied singluar receptacles, and the limited exception GENERAL LIGHTING switched outlet(s)/receptacle(s) provided in LIEU OF LIGHTING OUTLETS are the ONLY "other" 15- or 20- amp readily accessible under 5-1/2 feet, multi-outlet circuit supplied receptacles allowed in dining room. When in "the zone" in a dining room, not otherwise excepted, receptacles must be on a SABC. A SABC does NOT require GFCI protection in and of itself.

Apparently you keep missing the words "ALL" and "ONLY" and "EVERY" (such as in 210.11(C)(1), in 210.52(B)(1), don't overlook exceptions), the inclusivity of 210.52(C), And the EXCLUSION of "other receptacles" dictated by 210.23(A)'s EXCEPTION. No matter what, if you have a dining room it will require "outlets" from at least two circuits - one being a SABC, the other for the purposes of LIGHITNG - which must be switched, and which may not be powered via a SABC, whether the outlets are a luminaire wall or ceiling - or a switched receptacle. The spacing of the SABC outlets (receptacles) are dictated as they are generally for wall spaces and countertops should they exist. The mandate is that they be SABC supplied if in a dining room, except the exceptions already noted. If you have "general use" receptacles in a dining room they had better be more than 20 inches above a countertop and more than 5-1/2 feet above the floor.

210.2 Other Articles for Specific-Purpose Branch Circuits. Branch circuits shall comply with this article and also with the applicable provisions of other articles of this Code. The provisions for branch circuits supplying equipment listed in Table 210.2 ammend or supplement the provisions in this article and shall apply to branch circuits referred to therein.

210.7 Branch-Circuit Requirements for Device Connections and Locations.


(A) Receptacle Outlet Location. Receptacle outlets shall be located in branch circuits in accordance with Part III of Article 210.


210.11 Branch Circuits Required. Branch circuits for lighting and for appliances, including motor-operated appliances, shall be provided to supply the loads calculated in accordance with 220.10. In addition, branch circuits shall be provided for specific loads not covered by 220.10 where required elsewhere in this Code and for dwelling unit loads as specified in 210.11(C).
(A) Number of Branch Circuits. The minimum number of branch circuits shall be determined from the total calculated load and the size or rating of the circuits used. In all installations, the number of circuits shall be sufficient to supply the load served. In no case shall the load on any circuit exceed the maximum specified by 220.18.



(B) Load Evenly Proportioned Among Branch Circuits. Where the load is calculated on the basis of volt-amperes per square meter or per square foot, the wiring system up to and including the branch-circuit panelboard(s) shall be provided to serve not less than the calculated load. This load shall be evenly proportioned among multioutlet branch circuits within the panelboard(s). Branch-circuit overcurrent devices and circuits shall be requred to be installed only to serve the connected load.



(C) Dwelling Units.
(1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section, two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits shall be provided for all receptacle outlets specified by 210.52(B).<B>
210.21 Outlet Devices. Outlet devices shall have an ampere rating that is not less than the load to be served and shall comply with 210.21(A) and (B).

(A) Lampholders. Where connected to a branch circuit having a rating in excess of 20 amperes....

(B) Receptacles.

(1) Single Receptacle on an Individual Branch Circuit. A single receptacle installed on an individual branch circuit shall have an ampere rating not less than that of the branch circuit.
(2) Total Cord-and-Plug-Connected Load. Where connected to a branch circuit supplying two or more receptacles or outlets, a receptacle shall not supply a total cord-and-plug-connected load in excess of the maximum specified in Table 210.21(B)(2)
Table 210.21(B)(2) Maximum Cord-and-Plug-Connected Load to Receptacle

Circuit Rating Receptacle Rating Maximum Load
15 or 20A 15A 12A
20A 20A 16A
30A 30A 24A
</B>


210.23 Permissible Loads. In no case shall the load exceed the branch-circuit ampere rating. An individual branch circuit shall be permitted to supply any load for which it is rated. A branch circuit supplying two or more outlets or receptacles shall supply only the loads specified according to its size as specified in 210.23(A) through (D) and as summarized in 210.24 and Table 210.24.
(A) 15- and 20-Ampere Branch Circuits. A 15- or 20-ampere branch circuit shall be permitted to supply lighting units or other utilization equipment, or a combination of both, and shall comply with 210.23(A)(1) and (A)(2).

Exception: The small-appliance branch circuits, laundry branch circuits, and bathroom branch circuits required in a dwelling unit(s) by 210.11(C)(1), (C)(2), and (C)(3) shall supply only the receptacle outlets specified in that section.
(1) Cord-and-Plug-Connected Equipment Not Fastened in Place. The rating of any one cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment not fastened in place shall not exceed 80 percent of the branch-circuit ampere rating.



(2) Utilization Equipment Fastened in Place. The total rating of utilization equipment fastened in place, other than luminaires, shall not exceed 50 percent of the branch-circuit ampere rating where lighting units, cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment not fastened in place, or both, are also supplied.
(B) 30-Ampere Branch Circuits. A 30-ampere ...
(C) 40- and 50-Ampere Branch Circuits...
(D) Branch Circuits Larger Than 50 Amperes...

210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets. This section provides requirements for 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacle outlets. The receptacles required by this section shall be in addition to any receptacle that is:

(1) Part of a luminaire or appliance, or
(2) Controlled by a wall switch in accordance with 210.70(A)(1), Exception No. 1, or
(3) Located within cabinets or cupboards, or
(4) Located more than 1.7m (5-1/2 ft) above the floor.
(A) General Provisions. In every kitchen, family room, dining room, living room, parlor, library, den, dunroom, bedroom, recreation room, or similar room or area of dwelling units, receptacle outlets shall be installed in accordance with the general provisions specified in 210.52(A)(1) through (A)(3).

(1) Spacing. Receptacles shall be installed such that no point measured horizontally along the floor liine in any wall space is more than 1.8 m (6 ft) from a receptacle outlet.

(2) Wall Space. As used in this section, a wall space shall include the following:

(1) Any space 600 mm (2 ft) or more in width (including space measured around corners) and unbroken along the floor line by doorways, fireplaces, and similar openings
(2) The space occupied by fixed panels in exterior walls, excluding sliding panels
(3) The space afforded by fixed room dividers such as free-standing bar-type counters or railings(3) Floor Receptacles. Receptacle outlets in floors shall not be counted as part of the required number of receptacle outlets unless located within 450 mm (18 in.) of the wall.
(B) Small Appliances.

(1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all wall and floor receptacle outlets covered by 210.52(A), all countertop outlets covered by 210.52(C), and receptacle outlets for refrigeration equipment.

Exception No. 1: In addition to the required receptacles specified by 210.52, switched receptacles supplied from a general purpose branch circuit as defined in 210.70(A)(1), Exception No. 1, shall be permitted.
Exception No. 2: The receptacle outlet for refrigeration equipment shall be permitted to be supplied from an individual branch circuit rated 15 amperes or greater.(2) No Other Outlets. The two or more small-appliance branch circuits specified in 210.52(B)(1) shall have no other outlets.

Exception No. 1: A receptacle installed solely for the electrical supply to and support of an electric clock in any of the rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1).
Exception No. 2: Receptacles installed to provide power for supplemental equipment and lighting on gas-fired ranges, ovens, or counter-mounted cooking units.(3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. Receptacles installed in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall be supplied by not fewer than two small-appliance branch circuits, either or both of which shall also be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the same kitchen and in other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). Additional small=appliance branch circuits shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the kitchen and other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). No small-appliance branch circuit shall serve more than one kitchen.
(C) Countertops. In kitchens, Pantires, Breakfast Rooms, Dining Rooms and Similar Areas of dwelling units, receptacle outlets for countertop spaces shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(C)(1) through (C)(5).
Where a range, counter-mounted cooking unit, or sink is installed in an island or peninsular countertop and the width of the countertop behind the range, counter-mounted cooking unit, o sink is less than 300 mm (12 in.), the range, counter-mounted cooking unit, or sink is considered to divide the countertop space into two separate countertop spaces as defined in 210.52(C)(4). Each separate countertop space shall comply with the applicable requirements in 210.52(C).
210.70 Lighting Outlets Required. Lighting outlets shall be installed where specified in 210.70(A), (B), and (C).

(A) Dwelling Units. In dwelling units, lighting outlets shall be installed in accordance with 210.70(A)(1), (A)(2), and (A)(3).

(1) Habital Rooms. At least one wall switch-controlled lighting outlet shall be installed in every habital room and bathroom.

Exception No. 1: In other than kitchens and bathrooms, one or more receptacles controlled by a wall switch shall be permitted in lieu of lighting outlets.


The spacing/location requirements in no way grant exception or are in anyway permissive to install NON-SABC multi-outlet "GENERAL USE" receptacles in a dining room below 5-1/2 feet up from the floor. If not a switched LIGHTING OUTLET (ex. 1 for switched receptacle) or an individual for refrigeration or other specified SPECIAL (never supplied by "general") or not IN a cabinet or cupboard, etc. then it isn't allowed in the Dining Room.

[H.G. Watson, Sr.]

Too funny Kreigh,

Obvious why you aren't qualifed contractor, planner, designer, etc. and don't know what you're talking about.

Any one who knows, would recognize a "coffee bar" in a suite, alcove, or open on a continuous wall, esp. one with a designated small refrigerator AND understand WHY same will have "outlets" designated from a SABC, and NOT be from the same circuit or circuits supplying the "general purpose convenience" receptacles in the rest of the bedroom, nor share the same circuit as the (if present) switched receptacles provided for general lighting.

Small wonder since you oftentimes still claim AFCI includes GFCI protection for personnel, and have no clue regarding the NON-EXCLUSION of SABCs outlets serving kitchen countertops within the kitchen itself.

SABCs can have AFCI protection, its done all the time.

Snack counters dry or wet, coffee bars dry or wet, oh and there's the SABC-fed receptacle OFTENTIMES employed for the diabetic child's room adjacent to the bed, containing medications, juices, and liquids. DONE ALL THE TIME. For a while that dry snack counter, popcorn machine and refrigerator in the "Theatre Room" was the latest trend - also supplied with SABC at the SNACK COUNTER & behind the refrigerator and wine cooler below it.

Plugging any residential refrigerator in other than an individual branch circuit single outlet, a special or dedicated circuit, OR a multi-outlet SABC in a dwelling unit would be a technical violation.

The code USED to further explain what was meant by "OTHER AREAS", at that time indicating "where food is likely to be SERVED" (not prepared). It was LATER removed, because that was no longer meant by "other areas" it STILL includes "where food is likely to be served" it also includes where refrigeration equipment is intended to be placed, it also includes where small appliances are intended to be used, and it continues to include where microwaves, corn poppers, toasters, toaster ovens, cook pots, crock pots, warming trays, cook coils, percolators, hot pots, and other heat producing appliances utilized to warm, heat, cook, cool, refrigerate, or freeze foods (which includes liquids)! Does not include communications equipment, and a host of other equipment.

Supply same with a shared general circuit, esp. one that includes lighting and you're violating the NEC Plain and simple.

[Jim Port]

Small wonder since you oftentimes still claim AFCI includes GFCI protection for personnel, and have no clue regarding the NON-EXCLUSION of SABCs outlets serving kitchen countertops within the kitchen itself.

AFCI breakers incorporate Class B GFI protection which trips at 30mA. This is not the level to satisfy where Class A 4-6mA protection is required like bathrooms, exterior or kitchen countertop receptacles.

[Derek Guridi]

I am just amazed at the stuff Watson comes up with.


How do you think I feel? I am new here and he scares the hell out of me.

PS. I am a sparkie, not an HI.

[H.G. Watson, Sr.]

AFCI breakers incorporate Class B GFI protection which trips at 30mA. This is not the level to satisfy where Class A 4-6mA protection is required like bathrooms, exterior or kitchen countertop receptacles.


Exactly. GFPE is NOT ground fault protection for persons, despite what Kreigh has posted here over and over again.

It furthermore does not have to trip in a timely enough fashion as does GFCI Class A protection.

[Jerry Peck]

Combining the two sections, I come up with this.

(B)(2) No Other Outlets. The two or more small-appliance
branch circuits specified in the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit shall have no other outlets.


(B)(3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. Receptacles installed
in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall be
supplied by not fewer than two small-appliance branch circuits,
either or both of which shall also be permitted to supply
receptacle outlets in the same kitchen and in pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit. Additional small-appliance branch circuits shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the
kitchen and other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). No small appliance branch circuit shall serve more than one kitchen.


This works for me Jim.

That works for me too. I figured out what I was missing (I did say 'unless I am missing something' several times ;) , I was right at least with that part).

Okay, I am NOW on the same page as you guys - mentally erased the old thinking and inserted the new thinking in its place. Thanks, now I just have to start watching for that on the new houses going up, if they are wired correctly, no harm no foul on the ones passed before, if they are not wired correctly ... at least now I will catch them.

Sometimes it like pulling teeth the old fashioned way, I have to have the code jammed down me before I see what I was missing.

Whew! At least I didn't make a bigger fool out of me than I already had above. :)

Okay, we are now one fool less here, but there is still that Watson dude ... :D

[Bill Kriegh]

Plugging any residential refrigerator in other than an individual branch circuit single outlet, a special or dedicated circuit, OR a multi-outlet SABC in a dwelling unit would be a technical violation. .

You better have a code reference.

Small wonder since you oftentimes still claim AFCI includes GFCI protection for personnel, and have no clue regarding the NON-EXCLUSION of SABCs outlets serving kitchen countertops within the kitchen itself.

You better have a reference

SABCs can have AFCI protection, its done all the time

What is your point. The 2011 NEC requires AFCI protection on all circuits in a dining room, and that there would include the SABCs.

210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection.
(A) Dwelling Units. All 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms,
parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter, combination-type, installed to provide protection of the branch circuit.

As to the rest of the post the AHJ I was visiting with today says you're full of **ap too.

[Jerry Peck]

What is your point. The 2011 NEC requires AFCI protection on all circuits in a dining room, and that there would include the SABCs.

210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection.
(A) Dwelling Units. All 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms,
parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter, combination-type, installed to provide protection of the branch circuit.

The 2008 NEC requires the same AFCI protection for dining room SABC:
- 210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection.
- - (B) Dwelling Units. All 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter, combination-type, installed to provide protection of the branch circuit.

[Stuart Brooks]

Back to the OP: After seeing the report, the inspector assumed the dining room was wired with the 15A (14ga) living room circuit and protected with a 20A breaker. It wasn't. Bad assumption and didn't take me but about 2 minutes to verify 12ga wire for the circuit in question. The report was worded in a way that made it a somewhat confusing statement of a deficiency that required repair.