What Type of Circuits Must Be Provided for Receptacle Outlets in the Kitchen, Pantry & Dining Room?

National Electrical Code

• The National Fire Protection Association updated the National Electrical Code in 2011, with a previous update in 2008. By September 2011, 12 states had adopted the 2011 code and 27 states still used the 2008 version. The remaining states used an older version or counted on local adoption of the NEC. Local adoption of the electrical code includes municipal and county enforcement and application of NEC electrical standards. Under the newest version of the NEC, ground fault receptacles must be accessible for recommended regular testing.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

• The ground fault circuit interrupter offers protection against electrical shock with a sensor that detects changes in the flow of electricity to and from an appliance. A drop in the current trips a relay in the GFI that shuts down the power, protecting the user from serious shock or injury. GFI outlets, GFI circuit breakers and portable GFIs are three kinds of ground fault interrupters. The GFI outlet substitutes for the standard receptacle in your home. The ground fault circuit breaker fits in the circuit board and controls all receptacles on the circuit. The portable GFI is used by contractors, woodworkers and electricians who work in different locations. The NEC requires GFIs around swimming pools, near saunas and hot tubs, in kitchens, bathrooms, basements and garages.

Kitchen

• The kitchen requires ground fault receptacles at the counter level, and new kitchens must have at least two small appliance branch circuits rated at 20 amps each. The GFI receptacles require a rating of 20 amps as well. You don’t have to use a GFI for a refrigerator in the kitchen and you can’t tie the lighting to the countertop branch circuits and comply with the NEC. Lighting must be on a different circuit for code compliance. Garbage disposers, microwaves and dishwashers don't require GFI circuits because fixed or hard-wired appliances don't usually require GFI protection.

Dining Room and Pantry

• The dining room and pantry don't require GFI circuits unless there is moisture or water in the area, or unless you have a refrigerator in the garage as part of your pantry storage. If your kitchen and dining room are all one room, you may need a GFI at the eating area. An island bar or peninsula table larger than 12 inches by 24 inches requires at least one GFI circuit not lower than 12 inches from the countertop. This reduces the risk of shock or danger to children reaching for a hanging cord.