In addition, kitchens require small appliance circuits and at least one lighting circuit.
Be aware that not all local building codes have the same requirements.
Always check with your local code authorities on requirements for your community.
The Spruce / Margot Cavin
Refrigerator Circuit
A modern refrigerator requires a dedicated 20-amp circuit.
For this dedicated 20-amp circuit, 12/2non-metallic (NM) sheathed wirewith a ground is required for the wiring.
Range Circuit
Anelectric range generally needsa dedicated 240/250-volt, 50-amp circuit.
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Dishwasher Circuit
Wheninstalling a dishwasher, the circuit should be a dedicated 120/125-volt, 15-amp circuit.
This 15-amp circuit is fed with a 14/2 NM wire with a ground.
You may also elect to feed the dishwasher with a 20-amp circuit using 12/2 NM wire with a ground.
Note: a means of local disconnection or panel lock-out is required for dishwashers.
Check with local code authorities to see if this is allowed.
GFCI and AFCI requirements vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Garbage Disposal Circuit
Garbage disposals do the dirty work of cleaning up the messes after meals.
When loaded down with garbage, they use a good bit of amperage as they grind up the refuse.
Agarbage disposal requiresa dedicated 15-amp circuit, fed by a 14/2 NM cable with a ground.
This is often done when the local code allows the disposal to share a circuit with the dishwasher.
You should always check with your local building inspector to see if this is allowed in your locale.
Microwave Oven Circuit
The microwave oven needs a dedicated 20-amp, the 120/125-volt circuit to feed it.
This will require 12/2 NM wire with a ground.
Microwave ovens come in different varieties and sizes.
Some are countertop models, and othermicrowaves mount above the stove.
AFCI protection is usually required for this circuit since the appliance is plugged into an outlet.
Two circuits are the minimum required by code; you could also install more if your needs require them.
If in doubt, add additional circuits for the future.
Circuits powering plug-in receptacles serving countertop appliances shouldalwayshave both GFCI and AFCI protection.
Each set of lights should have its own switch, allowing you to control the lighting.
Always consider future needs, as well.
You may want to add a ceiling fan in the future, or maybe a bank of track lights.
AFCI protection is generally required for all lighting circuits.
This often involves adding electrical circuits and adding GFCI and/or AFCI protection.
GFCIs have long been required in kitchens, but AFCI protection is a more recent addition.
AFCIs shut down the current flow before a fire can occur.
Many kitchen circuits require both AFCI and GFCI protection.
There is by no means consensus on the requirements for AFCI protection in a kitchen.
Even within a single jurisdiction, different inspectors may have different interpretations of the requirements.
Adding the necessary AFCI protection must be done whenever circuit work is done in the home.
Here is a list of the required electrical circuits in new kitchen construction or a major remodel.
