We are updating our kitchen and I was just wondering if someone could tell me the code appropriate type of circuit breakers to use for circuits in the kitchen.
Electrical – Appropriate breaker types for kitchen circuits
circuitelectricalkitchenswiring
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Best Answer
First the breaker must match your panel (Square D in a Square D panel; Eaton BR in a Challenger panel; sometimes it's tricky).
Then, the breaker must be the correct ampacity for the wire. So if the wire is #14 use a 15A breaker. Do not use a 20A breaker unless all wire in the circuit is known to be #12 copper or #10 aluminum.
If it is feasible for you to add new circuits to the kitchen, then there are a minimum number of circuits which must exist, and a few more we recommend for usability's sake. The Code requirements are slumlord minimums; exceeding the minimum makes a happier kitchen.
You must install at least two 20A receptacle circuits, which serve receptacles only, in kitchen countertops, rest of kitchen, pantry, dining area, breakfast nook etc. These circuits can also serve small loads on a gas range (i.e. spark ignitors) and also a wall clock. The exhaust fan CANNOT be on this circuit.
Electric ranges and ovens can share a dedicated circuit (or not), and are subject to special/unusual math as to circuit ampacity. Generally a 50A circuit/breaker is a safe choice, but the best choice is conduit between range area and service panel. Connections MUST be 4-wire: using /2+ground Romex to power ovens has always been illegal.
Hardwired large appliances cannot be on the above circuits, and need their own circuit(s) as needed based on their ampacity (x 1.25 if the load might conceivably run 3 hours or more, so not microwaves nor disposals). They can share circuits, but that "paints you into a corner" in the future, e.g. not allowing you to use a more powerful disposal because then disposal+dishwasher would exceed 20A. Generally best to have a dedicated circuit for each.
Only recommended: Dedicated circuit for refrigerator, set up with a single socket (not the normal dual socket) and labeled "Refrigerator only". No GFCI on this circuit!
Recommended: More than two Kitchen countertop receptacle circuits. One per countertop receptacle is ideal. That is because 2 cooking appliances (typically 1500W each) are typically too much for 1 circuit (2400W). This makes it easy for the chef to arrange appliances so they don't trip breakers.