Kitchen Counter Top Outlet Circuits

Question: Everything I read on the internet and in the NFPA says that the outlets serving the counter tops in a kitchen in my case this all of the outlets in the kitchen except the dedicated circuit for the refrigerator must be supplied by at least 2 circuits.
However, the electrician and inspector say that the entire kitchen must be supplied by 2 circuits and there are no separate requirements for the outlets.
Am I totally off base?

This electrical question came from: Sue, a Homeowner from Rockville, MD
See more about Home Wiring for Maryland

Additional Comments: very helpful

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Sue.
Electrical Circuit Requirements for Kitchen Outlets
Sue, this may be a matter of interpretation, however the electrical code requires the following:

• Two small appliance circuits for the counter top outlets.

Additional circuits are also required for large appliances such as:

• The garbage disposal and dishwasher.
• Electric Range.
• Electric Oven.
• Microwave oven.

All of these items having their own specific circuit requirements in addition to the counter top outlets.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

Circuit Wiring

Electrical Panel Circuit Listing

Kitchen Electrical Wiring

electrical outlet wiring

Wiring Electrical Outlet for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home.
See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.

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Electric Circuit Listing
The size of the home electrical service panel is designed by calculating the square footage of the home and factoring in the code requirements for the electrical circuits that are required.

How to Install Kitchen Electrical Wiring

Kitchen Electrical Wiring
Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Kitchen Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.

For more information about Circuit Wiring
Circuit Wiring

Electrical Circuit Wiring
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.

This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical