Each kitchen is required to have a minimum of how many small appliance branch circuits?

In residential electrical installations, kitchens are required to have at least two small appliance branch circuits. This requirement is outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC), which aims to ensure proper power distribution to appliances used in kitchens, such as toasters, blenders, coffee makers, and microwaves.

Having two separate circuits is important for safety and functionality, allowing multiple small appliances to be used simultaneously without overloading a single circuit. This separation helps prevent tripping circuit breakers and reduces the risk of electrical fires that can be caused by overloaded circuits. It also allows for a more effective layout of kitchen appliances and promotes convenience during meal preparation.

While one circuit may be insufficient to reliably power multiple appliances, three or more circuits would exceed the minimum requirement, although they can be beneficial in larger kitchens with more gadgets and high-demand equipment. Therefore, two small appliance branch circuits represent the minimum standard to ensure both safety and efficiency in a kitchen’s electrical system.