Blog written by Hauer Power Electrical Inc. in Edmonton
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where kids get help with homework, where friends and families gather for coffee and dessert while catching up on life’s events. There is no wonder that a kitchen remodel is one of the most common. Older homes weren’t wired for all the modern conveniences we have today. When was the last time you saw a GFCI in your aunt’s post-war home? What’s so nice about a kitchen remodel is you can update your home and bring it up to Canadian Electrical Code at the same time.
The minimum number of circuits in modern kitchens is seven. You will probably require more but no less. You’ll need a lighting circuit, at least 2 kitchen counter circuits for small appliances and each major appliance, fridge, stove, microwave and dishwasher requires its own circuit.
The Lighting Circuit
A single 15 amp, 120v circuit should be sufficient to provide power for your kitchen. Especially when most general lighting and task lighting uses efficient LED technology. Hauer Power Electrical, an Edmonton electrician always recommends recessed LED lighting for kitchen remodels.
Refrigerator Circuit
Refrigerators are larger and have more complex electronic gadgetry than ever before. Today’s refrigerators have built in ice makers, water dispensers and some even have touchscreens. It’s recommended that a dedicated 20 amp 120v circuit power your fridge with no other electrical loads. If you trip the breaker on your fridge without knowing it, you will be forced to throw your groceries in the bin.
Range Circuit
Most kitchens have an electric range/oven. These require a 40 amp 120/240v dedicated circuit using an 8 gauge/3 conductor cable. Check with the appliance supplier to be sure as your new range may have a higher ampacity load rating in which case you will need larger conductors and breaker. If you’re not sure, electricians in Edmonton like Hauer Power can help.
Microwave Circuit
Because microwaves vary in power requirements, it’s smart to use a dedicated 20 amp, 120 v circuit. You would probably be safe with a 15 amp circuit, but while the drywall is removed, why not prepare for future power requirements.
Dishwasher Circuit
A dishwasher doesn’t have a large power requirement like a fridge or microwave, even though it has pumps, motors and a heating element. All that is required is a single dedicated 15 amp, 120v circuit. The automatic dishwasher is one of the best inventions of the 20th century; wouldn’t you agree?
Kitchen Counter Appliance Circuits
Kitchen counter circuits are there to supply power to all your small appliances like toasters, coffee pots, blenders, air fryers and the like. The kitchen must have at least two dedicated 20 amp circuits for countertop and eating areas. If your kitchen has a separate island, you will need receptacles there as well.
For a free kitchen remodel electrical consultation, contact Hauer Power Electrical, a local Edmonton electrician, today
