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Re: Do we need separate electrical circuits for a fridge and buil...

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Electrical/Lighting
Date: 25 Feb 2000
Time: 20:47:52
Remote Name: 207.82.209.192

Comments

According to the National Electrical Code, two separate 20-amp "small appliance" circuits are required in the kitchen. No other built-in appliances (other than a refrigerator) or lighting is allowed on these circuits. They're reserved for items like toasters, counter-top microwaves, blenders, etc. Even exhaust fans must be isolated from your small appliance circuits.

Generally, built-in appliances such as ovens, microwaves, dishwashers, etc. require dedicated circuits. This is both for safety reasons and proper appliance efficiency.

While it's true that the codes are generally conservative, they have evolved over many years of "trial and error." As a result, the codes exist to help ensure "minimum" safety requirements for occupants. Since many house fires result from improperly installed electrical equipment and branch circuits, I strongly discourage anyone from violating the electrical codes and cannot condone such a practice.

Assuming your existing subpanel has sufficient amperage capacity (accounting for the derating factors allowable in the code), you may be able to replace some existing circuit breakers with newer "half-width" versions. This allows you to expand the number of physical circuits inside an existing subpanel.

In the worst case, you can enlarge the subpanel or provide a second subpanel...which, while more expensive, will provide you with peace of mind.

In any case, I would NOT combine the two appliances on a 30-amp circuit. Even though this might work fine under normal circumstances, in the event of an appliance malfunction, you want the trip point of the breaker to be consistent with the appliance load, otherwise overheating and possibly combustion could result.

If your contractor is unwilling to do the job right, I suggest finding a contractor who won't cut corners. Saving any amount of money on an electrical installation that is not up to code simply doesn't make sense from either a safety or resale standpoint. If you ever sell your home, you may be forced to fix it anyway prior to closing escrow, so you might as well just do it right from the start.

Good luck,

Builders Websource.

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