- Location
- Lockport, IL
- Occupation
- Retired Electrical Engineer
This is a spinoff of this thread:
https://forums.mikeholt.com/showthread.php?t=195421
Taking into consideration Exception 2 to 210.52(B)(1) and the definition of "Branch Circuit, Individual," is it allowable to use a 15 amp circuit to serve a duplex outlet located behind, and intended to power, the fridge?
Many of us have commented on this topic before. Many have said that if you use a simplex you are compliant, but if you use a duplex you will be outside the definition. The reasoning I have read is that a duplex receptacle comprises two "outlets." I am no longer certain that a duplex could not be used in this situation. My reasoning is that the definition says that the circuit serves "only one utilization equipment." It does not say "only one outlet." The other half of a duplex located behind the fridge is essentially useless. I submit that that receptacle is only serving "one utilization equipment," namely the fridge.
By the way, I will be opening a new thread in Campfire Chat to describe our wiring woes.
I am submitting this now because we are undergoing a total kitchen remodel. It has evolved into a 100% rewiring project for the kitchen. I have not asked the electrician what he plans to use to feed the fridge. He has already installed the outlet box in the wall, and I am willing to bet he is not planning to install a simplex. But I don't know whether he is planning to use a 15 or 20 amp breaker.
https://forums.mikeholt.com/showthread.php?t=195421
Taking into consideration Exception 2 to 210.52(B)(1) and the definition of "Branch Circuit, Individual," is it allowable to use a 15 amp circuit to serve a duplex outlet located behind, and intended to power, the fridge?
Many of us have commented on this topic before. Many have said that if you use a simplex you are compliant, but if you use a duplex you will be outside the definition. The reasoning I have read is that a duplex receptacle comprises two "outlets." I am no longer certain that a duplex could not be used in this situation. My reasoning is that the definition says that the circuit serves "only one utilization equipment." It does not say "only one outlet." The other half of a duplex located behind the fridge is essentially useless. I submit that that receptacle is only serving "one utilization equipment," namely the fridge.
By the way, I will be opening a new thread in Campfire Chat to describe our wiring woes.
I am submitting this now because we are undergoing a total kitchen remodel. It has evolved into a 100% rewiring project for the kitchen. I have not asked the electrician what he plans to use to feed the fridge. He has already installed the outlet box in the wall, and I am willing to bet he is not planning to install a simplex. But I don't know whether he is planning to use a 15 or 20 amp breaker.