ICC Residential Electrical Inspectors Practice Exam

What is the minimum amount of branch circuits required to serve receptacle outlets for small appliances located on the countertops within the kitchen area of a dwelling?

1. One 15 AMP branch circuit

2. Two 20 AMP branch circuits

3. Three 30 AMP branch circuits

4. Four 15 AMP branch circuits

The correct answer is: Two 20 AMP branch circuits

In a residential kitchen, the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies the requirement for the number of branch circuits dedicated to serving countertop receptacle outlets, which are essential for small appliances. According to NEC guidelines, at least two separate 20 AMP branch circuits are mandated to adequately support the electrical demands of these appliances. The reason for specifying two circuits is to ensure that there is sufficient capacity to handle multiple appliances simultaneously, such as toasters, blenders, and coffee makers, without tripping breakers or causing overloads. This requirement is part of the NEC's efforts to enhance safety and efficiency in kitchen wiring, recognizing that kitchens are high-demand areas for electrical usage. By providing two dedicated circuits, the design ensures that appliances can operate without the risk of overloading a single circuit, thus reducing the likelihood of electrical hazards. This standard reflects an understanding of kitchen usage patterns and the need for convenience and reliability in powering small kitchen appliances.