Home Garden

Kitchen Wiring

The kitchen is among the busiest rooms in a home, and serves as a center for entertaining and everyday activities. With such an important function, the kitchen must be well organized and in proper working order. Part of the kitchen design process is lighting and electric, both of which require proper, and thus safe, wiring to function properly. Wiring a kitchen requires at least some experience and knowledge of local building codes. Without following these codes, costly fines, delays and repairs could result.
  1. Wiring Diagram

    • A wiring diagram is an essential tool for laying out electrical circuits. These guides are available from a number of sources, including electrical wiring books and online. They will detail how electrical devices are wired, how controls operate and other essential information about wiring. Most will also include illustrations on wire colors and show where each wire goes. This kind of diagram is especially useful for first timers, and you should keep it close by throughout the project.

    Service Equipment

    • Service equipment, including the main panel, meter base and conductors, must provide adequate voltage to supply the kitchen. These pieces also must meet building codes, which are updated when necessary to keep the setup safe. Panels should have a 30-inch wide and 36-inch deep clearance to prevent problems. This zone should be uninterrupted by appliances, pipes, cabinets or other interruptions. Closets and bathrooms are not allowed to house main panels, according to the National Electrical Code.

    Kitchen Receptacles

    • Modern home building codes have specific requirements when it comes to the receptacles in the kitchen. You must outfit all kitchens, countertop plugs and eating spaces with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, or GFCI, protected plug. These plugs are designed to protect people from being shocked or electrocuted and are an essential part of having a safe home. Make countertop receptacles at least 24 inches apart, and add at least one outlet to bars or islands that are 12 inches or wider.

    Appliance Plug-Ins

    • There are a few must-have electrical requirements to assure appliances work correctly. Dishwashers need one 15-amp, 120-volt circuit that is wired with 14/2 cable. It is does not require a GFCI. Outfit the range area with one 50-amp outlet with 120 or 240 volts and wire it with 6/3 cable. This outlet also does not require a GFCI. Additionally, attach a garbage disposal to a 15-amp circuit with 120 volts wired with 14/2 cable. The National Electrical Code outlines more appliance wiring specifics and is available online.