I’d really appreciate any feedback on this. Though I’ve been reading through a variety of resource material, including the 1999 NEC, I’m still lost.
1. Is it now required to use AFCI breakers for bedroom outlets?
2. Is it acceptable to have a bathroom outlet and 3 kitchen outlets on the same branch circuit?
Thank you.
Replies
1] Some wise states have deleted the stupid AFCI requirement. So it depends on where you live. They may be required where you live TO PASS FINAL INSPECTION. So save your receipt.
2] Bathroom receptacles must be 20 amps and on their own circuit. There are two ways to do this: You can have all the recepts. and lights/fan, etc. in an individual bathroom on one 20 amp circuit or you could have the receptacles in two or more bathrooms sharing the same circuit but the fans, lights, etc. must be on a different circuit.
Using the Code Handbook is a better way to study the Code since it breaks down the legalese.
The kitchen/dining room/pantry requires two dedicated "small appliance" circuits.
~Peter
Thanks for the reply. I'll check the code here in CA regarding AFCI. Someone said it'll be in the 1995 NEC; other articles and online sources say it's not yet required.As for the bathroom circuit, this was my understanding as well but I just wanted to double check as the NEC makes my head spin. I'm going to get the Code Handbook as you suggested. Much appreciated,Steve
I meant the 2005 NEC, of course, not the 1995. Time to grab some more coffee I guess.
NJ removed the AFI requirement for bedrooms (I am glad because they are way expensive), but I was curious as to why the requirement was added in the first place (prevent electrical fires?) and why it's been subsequently deleted in many states.
I don't think that there has been any studies showing that they do prevent fires.Yes, they might prevent fires in 50 yo or older house with inadequate wiring, poor maintained and the uses of electric space heaters.However, none of those conditions are in modern homes where they are being speced.
Do check your local requirements.
Here in MN (St. Paul), light circuits (in bedrooms) have to be on an AFCI circuit, as well as outlets.
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"I tend to live in the past because most of my life is there."
-- Herb Caen (1916-1997)
Good advice, nikkiwood- thanks.I spoke with a friend of a friend who does a lot of work in the SF Bay Area. He says that AFCI is required in bedrooms but he's yet to meet or hear of an inspector who'll insist on it.