Small appliance circuits wrapper
Why you care (60 seconds)
Small appliance circuits have dedicated requirements in dwelling kitchens and similar areas. Missing a required circuit can fail inspection quickly.
Where people lose time
- Undersupplying countertop areas with required circuits.
- Using small appliance circuits for non-permitted loads.
- Confusing receptacle spacing with circuit count requirements.
This is
The rule in plain language
Provide the required number of small appliance circuits for specified dwelling areas and keep them for permitted loads only.
When it applies
Kitchens, pantries, dining areas, and similar spaces in dwelling units.
What you must do (checklist)
- Provide the minimum number of required circuits.
- Serve the allowed receptacle outlets with these circuits.
- Keep non-permitted loads off these circuits.
- Coordinate circuit count with receptacle layout.
Quick examples
- Kitchen countertops require the required number of small appliance circuits.
- A fixed appliance may need its own circuit instead of a small appliance circuit.
This is not
Common misreads
- Treating small appliance circuits as general-purpose circuits for all loads.
- Using one circuit to serve all required countertop receptacles.
What it doesn't cover
- GFCI/AFCI protection requirements.
- Branch circuit sizing and conductor details.
False friends
- A receptacle installed in the kitchen is not automatically on a small appliance circuit.
Exceptions & edge cases
- Some occupancies have different requirements or allowances.
- Kitchen layouts with islands or peninsulas may affect circuit planning.
Cross-references (NEC map)
- Primary: 210.11(C)(1)
- Secondary: 210.52(B)
Exam traps
- Missing the minimum circuit count.
- Putting lighting loads on small appliance circuits.
Field notes
- Coordinate appliance schedules early to avoid circuit conflicts.
- Label small appliance circuits clearly at the panel.
AHJ / Local amendments notes (placeholder)
- Add local amendments or interpretations here.
Revision notes
- Draft wrapper created for small appliance circuit fundamentals.