[badhaircut]

I have a counter plug that is very close to my sink. Is it to code to cap off one of the circuits and replace the plug with a 15 amp gfci receptacle? I would even go as far as replacing the double pole breaker at the panel to a single breaker if it's required.
I really dont want to pay for a double pole gfci breaker $$$$$

 

[joed]

NO it is not. The only way to get GFCI is to use double pole breaker. Circuit is grandfather and does not require GFCI not matter the home inspector says.

 

[joed]

Kitchen counter receptacles on Ontario MUST be one of two type. They can be split wired 15 amp or single wired 20 amp. The 20 amp option needs #12 cable and 20 amp T slot receptacles.

 

[badhaircut]

Why isnt it to code if done this way?

 

[joed]

Because kitchen receptacles must be either 15 amp split wired or 20 amp single wired.

If this receptacle is NOT in a kitchen then it can be done, but I have not seen any split wired 15 amp receptacles near a sink that are not in a kitchen.

Direct from the ESA FAQ page.

Subject: Kitchen counter outlets, split GFCI

Topic Residential Outlets & Circuits
Category Kitchen Outlets & Circuits
Keywords kitchen,receptacle,outlet,gfci
Date Created 6/17/2004
Date Last Updated 7/4/2012

Question
I understand the Code requires GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protection of receptacles next to my kitchen sink. Can I install a 15 amp GFCI type receptacle at these outlets?
Answer

No. The Code requires either a 5-15R split (15 amp multi-wire circuit with 15 amp split receptacles) or a 5-20R (20 amp circuit with T-slot) receptacles for kitchen counter outlets. A 15 amp rated GFCI receptacle cannot be installed in compliance with either of these requirements. Code compliant GFCI protection of the split circuit and receptacle option can be achieved by installing a 2 pole 15 amp GFCI circuit breaker at the panelboard. Code compliant GFCI protection for the 20 amp non-split circuit option can be achieved by either installing a 20 amp GFCI circuit breaker at the panelboard or by installing a T-slot GFCI type receptacle at the outlet.

Rules 26-700, 26-712, 26-722.

Ontario Electrical Safety Code 25th Edition/2012.

 

[badhaircut]

So if I was building a new kitchen I can install split receptacles still? Would they need to be on a gfci breaker?

 

[joed]

Yes you can still install 15 amp split receptacles in a kitchen today. They would only need to be GFCI if they were within 1.5 m of the sink.

The 20 amp kitchen receptacle option was added to the code in 2008 I think in order to accommodate the GFCI requirement at a reasonable expense.

Question
What does the Code require for receptacles that are located near kitchen sinks?
Answer

The electrical code states that receptacles located within 1.5 m of a sink (wash basins complete with drainpipe) shall be protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) of the Class A type. This rule was introduced in the 2002 edition of the electrical code and does not retroactively apply to older installations; however installations of new wiring in older kitchens are subject to this requirement.

Code 2012 introduces an exception to the above requirements for receptacles intended for a stationary appliance (designated for the location) and located behind the stationary appliance such that it is inaccessible for use with general purpose portable appliances

Rule 26-700.

Ontario Electrical Safety Code 25th Edition/2012.