What additional requirement is there for circuits serving small appliances in kitchens?

What additional requirement is there for circuits serving small appliances in kitchens?

• A. At least two 15-amp circuits
• B. No specific requirements
• C. They must be GFCI protected
• D. Only two receptacles are needed

Answer: (C)

Circuits that serve small appliances in kitchens must be GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protected to enhance safety. This requirement is in place because kitchens are areas where water and electricity are in proximity, creating a higher risk for electrical shock. GFCI devices can detect ground faults and interrupt the electrical circuit, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock when using kitchen appliances. The need for GFCI protection is specifically outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC) and is essential for any outlet that services a countertop in a kitchen. This requirement applies regardless of the amperage of the circuit, reinforcing the importance of safety in environments where liquids are commonly used. While having at least two 15-amp circuits is common practice in kitchens to accommodate multiple appliances, and additional receptacles are often installed to address convenience, the critical aspect that enhances safety in this context is the GFCI protection. Hence, it stands out as the key requirement for circuits serving small appliances in kitchens.

Circuits that serve small appliances in kitchens must be GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protected to enhance safety. This requirement is in place because kitchens are areas where water and electricity are in proximity, creating a higher risk for electrical shock. GFCI devices can detect ground faults and interrupt the electrical circuit, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock when using kitchen appliances.

The need for GFCI protection is specifically outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC) and is essential for any outlet that services a countertop in a kitchen. This requirement applies regardless of the amperage of the circuit, reinforcing the importance of safety in environments where liquids are commonly used.

While having at least two 15-amp circuits is common practice in kitchens to accommodate multiple appliances, and additional receptacles are often installed to address convenience, the critical aspect that enhances safety in this context is the GFCI protection. Hence, it stands out as the key requirement for circuits serving small appliances in kitchens.