Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: leftcoastsparky, Location: WA
Asked on: Friday, April 1, 2011 at 5:58 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:38 am EDT
Question: I remember a few years back being called on having a duplex outlet on a designated circuit. It was for a microwave. The inspector made me change out all of my designated outlets to single outlets. hat does the code say about that in resi applications. TY
National Electrical Code (NEC) RequirementsArticle 210.52(D) Receptacles intended for the connection of cord-and-plug-connected appliances may be installed on any branch circuit. Receptacles on designated branch circuits for specific appliances shall be limited to the connection of the appliance for which the circuit is intended.
Article 400.8 Every receptacle shall be installed as a single receptacle. A single receptacle installed on a strap shall be considered as an outlet.
Exceptions
Article 406.4(D)(8): Duplex receptacles may be used for appliances with a motor rated at less than 1/2 horsepower. Article 406.12 and Article 550.12: Duplex receptacles may be used for lighting or appliances in non-dwelling unit applications.
Interpretation
In most residential applications, microwave ovens are not considered appliances with motors rated at less than 1/2 horsepower. Therefore, duplex outlets are not permitted on designated circuits for microwaves. This is because the circuit is intended for the sole use of the microwave, and installing a duplex outlet could allow other appliances to be connected, potentially overloading the circuit.The inspector's request to change out all designated outlets to single outlets was likely based on this code requirement. Flag for review