Microwaves

[FionaZuppa]

AHJ yes... but that's not the same as an individual representative of the AHJ, as in a single inspector.

i not following you. the inspector is a representative of the AHJ. if within the AHJ there is general consensus that a indi-bc ckt used for util equip should be just a single outlet, then i am certain you will lose in court regardless of the 13 other wiring scenarios that may still be "ok" by nec verbiage. if the intent is not clear via nec verbiage then it is up to the AHJ to clarify, even if you dont like their clarification.

if one inspector has a view that is way different than the consensus of the AHJ, then most likely an appeal to AHJ will rectify the issue.

 

[ggunn]

if one inspector has a view that is way different than the consensus of the AHJ, then most likely an appeal to AHJ will rectify the issue.

In my experience the AHJ usually stands behind their inspectors. Disagreements are not unwinnable but the first response from the AHJ is usually that the inspector is correct.

 

[jmellc]

Nothing says you have to put a microwave on a 20A circuit.

However, if the receptacle is in a kitchen, I believe you'll find that you have to install it on a 20A circuit because all kitchen receptacles are required to be on small appliance branch circuits, which are required to be 20A except by exception for a 15A refrigerator circuit [210.52(B)(1)].

These are cabinet receptacles for microwave/hood units. Sorry, I should have specified. Code allows 15A for dedicated ckts. These are not part of the SABC's. I still like to do 20A just in case. It would be my luck to be involved when the 1st true 20 amp unit comes along, like the wall oven.

 

[jmellc]

If the microwave is not a built in or above the range then no special wiring is necessarily needed for it.

MW can be on the SABC but for years, I try to put on dedicated ckt if possible. I have often seen MW's trip breakers when used together with toaster ovens or waffle irons. If I know a MW goes in a particular spot, I try to allow for it if customer will pay for it. Same with refrigerators. I hate to risk spoiled food for a tripped breaker not noticed in time, or a tripped GFCI receptacle. Those used to be terrible for nuisance tripping, though not quite as much now.

 

[growler]

In my experience the AHJ usually stands behind their inspectors. Disagreements are not unwinnable but the first response from the AHJ is usually that the inspector is correct.

I have found that not all electrical inspectors are that great when it comes to knowing the code.
Some are either young and haven't had that much experience or they are combination inspectors and electrical is not their field of expertise.

In areas where they have a head electrical inspector and 10-12 field inspectors working under him/her then it's very possible to get the inspectors opinion over ruled if you are prepaired to make a good case based on the code and not just opinion.