kitchen gfic

handifoot

Hello there,

As I rewire my kitchen, I have some questions about the gfic's.
1.Does every plugin need to be gfi protected? That is, the back-splash plugs behind the counter on the opposite wall from the sink and in the breakfast nook, (no water there).
2.If so,can I divide my 20 amp small appliance circuit in two and place a gfi plugin at the start of each branch thus protecting all the downstream plugs?
3.Is there a limit as to how many receptacles can be protected by one gfic?
4.Should I plug in my refrigerator in on this circuit?
Thank you for input.

Atricaudatus

Hey foot,
1. ALL outlets that service a kitchen counter top must be GFCI, water or no water. Also any that are within 6 foot of the sink even if they are not over a countertop. The breakfast nook outlets do not have to be GFCI unless they service a countertop.
2. Yes, you can. Although you should have two separate 20 amp circuits servicing your kitchen so you will have to use at least two GFCIs (one for each circuit. Just identify the feed in and connect to the line side, and connect the outgoing wire to the Load side of the device.
3. Yes. The limit for the ones I use is no more than five outlets downstream from the GFI.
4. NO! Unless you don't mind rotten food. Make sure you don't install the GFI upstream of your fridge. That outlet isn't required to be GFCI'd and shouldn't be as a general rule.

Hope that helps.
Good luck.
R. Watson
Electrician/plumber

Speedy Petey

1) Agree with above except there is no 6' rule in kitchens, although it is a good idea.

2) You need at least TWO circuits to feed receptacles in the kitchen, pantry, DR, nook and similar rooms. You can have as many circuits as you wish.

3) NO, no legal limit. I limit myself to usually no more than four downstream receptacles.

4) Agree with above. I think the general concensus is to always install a dedicted circuit for the fridge.

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