I would like to get some disadvantages/advantages between using a 15 amp multi wire and a 20 amp circuit for kitchen receptecles would be and what the prefered wiring method would be? Understanding wire size will differ (15 amp/ #14) (20 amp/#12) I also have a basic idea of how the multi wire/ single neutral works (unbalanced/ balanced)

I was also wondering how many recepts can go on the multi wire system?
If they are split recepts, each with their own circuit, does it only count as half an outlet per circuit?

Lastly, does a dishwasher have to be on a dedicated circuit? I am assuming no but if at all possible it would be prudent. correct?

I am from BC Canada and have had no luck finding this info in the CEC, so if anyone responds would you mind writting down the page/ reference numbers for me.

Cheers, Rhys

 

You are not comparing similar setups. You are comparing dissimilar setups. 20 amp circuits provide 20 amps per circuit. 15 amp circuits provide 15 amps per circuit. A 15 amp multiwire circuit is two circuits, each of 15 amps. A 20 amp circuit is one circuit of 20 amps.

Now lets discuss this for Canada. I believe that Canada requires a 20 amp multiwire circuit, not a 15 amp multiwire circuit.

I do not know if Canada places a limit on receptacles per circuit.

Now let's discuss this for the US.

Forget the 15 amp circuit, multiwire or not. In the US you cannot have a 15 amp circuit in a kitchen. Any new wiring needs to be 20 amp circuits, and you need two circuits serving the countertop, and they must be GFCI protected.

Dishwashers do not need to be on a separate circuit, but they cannot be on the same circuit as the countertop receptacles.

In the US for residential wqiring there is no limit to the number of receptacles on a circuit, multwire or not.

 

When you say multi wire do you mean 12/3 or 14/3? In Canada counter plugs are 20amps. and ech one has to be split so you need 12/3. Also you need one(single) plug and circut for the fridge. One circut for the microwave and one circut for the garborator if yo have one in your sink.

Page 148 Rule 26-712 (d)(iii).
Page 149 Rule 26-726.

 

The following applies to Canada.

There appears to be some confusion about kitchen receptacles. This is not surprising, the rules just changed in January, ‘03.

Before January ’03 it was clear, you needed to supply each kitchen countertop receptacles with its own 14/3 15 amp shared circuit. The receptacle is split, and must be protected by a double breaker. Each circuit can be used for no other purpose. All the “normal rules” apply. You can still do this; however, in addition each receptacle within 1 m of the sink must be protected by a CFCI circuit breaker. Note: a double pole 15amp CFCI breaker is expensive!

Now the changes in January ’03 also added the option of using 20 amp 12/2 circuits. Note it’s an OPTION, not a requirement. If you go the 20 amp route each circuit can supply up to two, non adjacent, receptacles. So, at the least, you must have two 20 amp circuits for the countertops. They can be used for no other purpose. They should not be split receptacles. The receptacles within 1 m of the sink must be protected by a CFCI breaker, but note, since the 20 amp circuit is not split, a cheaper single CFCI can be used.

The code is a little unclear about if the 20 amp circuit is allowed to be split. I doubt the intent is the split the 20 amp receptacles.

Note again, the use of 20 amp circuits is an option not a requirement. (Unless your local code is over-riding this).

So far as the National Canadian code, split 15 amp 14/3 circuits are still allowed, with CFCI protection near the sink. The newer 20 amp non- split circuits are also allowed.

For new construction, the newer 20 amp circuits are better (cheaper/easier?). They provide more power, use fewer slots in the main panel, and use the cheaper single type CFCI breaker.

PS. Look in the book “Electrical Code Simplified”.

 

Just quickly, yes, the dishwasher must have a dedicated 20 amp circuit.

 

Page 149 Rule 26-726 states that it can't be below 20 amps.

 

If my interpretation is correct 26-726 in the CEC is an alternative to split recepts/multi wire branch circuits, as it clearly states in 26-710 (b) that all receptacles should be 5-15R unless otherwise permitted. It seems to me there are two ways to skin this cat.Question is which is better? I think I am going the 20 amp/#12 wire way as it makes sense what IMPEYR said about saving space in the panel, as well as less fussing around splitting recepts.

Thanks for all the input
Cheers Rhys

 

I certainty think the new part of the code adds some confusion, which needs to be clarified. Of course, in the final analysis it’s up the local inspector to have the final word.

 

After reading all this I realize that Ive made some errors in my kitchen wiring. In 1997 when I remodeled our kitchen, I just added 1-15A circuit for the counter top. Obviously not enough amps there as the circuit trips when the micro and toaster is going at the same time.
I plan on adding 2- 20A (12/2) circuits to get closer to 'code'. I was thinking of 'splitting' 1 of the 15A outlets so that the top would run on 15A (for a plug-in light) and the bottom outlet for the new 20A...but I gather thats a No-No! - True!
If so, than I presume I will have to install a new box and outlet for each of the new 20A circuits..to run the counter top appliances.... toaster, coffee maker, micro and toaster oven.
Is this the best way to go?

 

I could be wrong or maybe it's different in Ontario.
You used to need three 15amp split receptacles minimum. That's six circuits.
Now you can also use five 20 amp receptalces(not split) in place of the six 15 amp circuits. Two 20 amps circuits was mentioned and I think that is wrong. Five 20 amp circuits are required as replacement of the six 15 amp circuits. You must use 20 amp receptacles on 20 amp circuits in Canada. This is different than in USA where you are allowed to use 15 amp receptacles on a 20 amp circuit.

These are counter circuits. Dishwasher and fridge are a separate issue. Not sure if dedicated circuits are required for those but I don't think so.

 

Im only upgrading the counter top circuits. The 2-20Amp circuits mentioned I believe is only referring to the countertop outlets.

 

The five 20 amp circuits or three 15 amp split circuits are counter circuit minimums in Ontario. Fridge, dishwasher and garbage disposal would be additional to the counter circuits.

 

Joed said:I am not familiar with this rule. My summary of the Ontario code (assume BC is the same, but you should check) says that any uninterupted 12" span of counter must have an outlet, and no point of the countertop can be more than 35" from a receptacle (ie. minimum 70" apart). Also, adjacent countertop receptacles cannot be on the same circuit. The kitchen countertop must use either 15A split-duplex receptacles OR 20A T-slot receptacles. In theory, with the smallest of all kitchens with a countertop of less than 70", you could have just one 20A T-slot countertop receptacle or one 15A split-duplex receptacle (2 circuits).

Personally, I think that countertop receptacles should be no farther apart than 48", since the longest cord allowed on appliances these days is 24". This way an appliance parked at any point along a countertop can reach a plug. But that's just my opinion.

There is a maximum of 2 receptacles on any one circuit for kitchen countertop receptacles. Two 20A T-slot receptacles are allowed on one circuit, but only two. With 15A split duplex receptacles, this means you can only have 2 receptacles with each half of each receptacle on separate circuits. On a split-duplex circuit it must use a double-pole breaker or have the handles tied together.

Receptacles within 1 meter of any sink must be GFCI protected. You must not use GFCI receptacles if you choose to use the split-duplex receptacle option--you must use a double-pole GFCI circuit breaker--big $$. For this reason, it is usually cheaper to run the 20A T-slot GFCI receptacle beside the sink. It is Ok to run a receptacle to both sides of the sink on the same circuit because in this case they are not considered to be "adjacent."

In my kitchen renovation I installed 4 split duplex receptacles on 4 separate circuits. I ran a 20A circuit to a 20A T-slot GFCI on either side of the sink. All this for 26 linear feet of countertop.

It is legal to run 20A T-slot receptacles in a multi-wire, split-duplex circuit, but I'm not sure why you'd want to do that.

The fridge is required to be on a separate circuit.

A receptacle on a dedicated circuit is required if your kitchen has a separate eating area.

The 6'/12' rule would apply if the kitchen has walls without counters.

 

here is a cut and paste from http://electrical-contractor.net/ubb...ML/000074.html

Posted by an Ontario Inspector


Notice
Effective January 1, 2003 GFCI Protection will be Required for
Kitchen Counter Receptacles

The 2002 edition of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code includes an Ontario amendment to Rule 26-700,
which requires Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection for Kitchen Counter receptacles
effective January 1, 2003.

The new Subrule (26-700(12) states that effective January 2003:

(12) Receptacles located in kitchens and installed within 1 m of a kitchen sink along the wall
behind counter work surfaces shall be protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter of the Class A
type.

Appendix B note: Distance of 1 m is measured from edge of kitchen sink.

The following guidelines shall be used for consistent interpretation and application of this new subrule
effective January 1, 2003.

1. This rule applies to all receptacle installations located within 1 m of a kitchen sink along the wall behind
counter work surfaces where the plans or application for inspection is received on or after January 1, 2003

2. This rule applies to all kitchens.

2.1. Kitchen is defined as “a place (as a room) with cooking facilities”

2.2. A cooking facility is defined as a range or stove (electric or gas supply) for cooking. Hot plates,
microwaves, etc are not defined as a cooking facility for application of this rule.

3. 3. In dwelling units, Rules 26-712(d) and 26-722(b) require that kitchen counter receptacles be split
receptacles connected to multi-wire 15 amp branch circuits. Rule 26 -726 permits the installation of 5-20
RA (T-slot) receptacles connected to single 20 amp branch circuits as an alternative to split receptacles and
circuits. In both cases adjacent receptacles shall not be connected to the same branch circuit.



Receptacles that are located on either side of a kitchen sink shall not be considered as adjacent for the
application of this requirement and can be connected to the same branch circuit when applying this new
rule.

If you have any questions regarding this directive, please contact your local Technical Advisor (whose
name and number is listed in your bulletins).

Tony Moscioni
Electrical Inspector
Electrical Safety Authority
© Electrical Safety Authority - 2002

 

I wasnt concerned about my receptical at/near (within 1meter) of kitchen sink being GCFI protected. It is.
Mostly I was concerned with the other outlets running counter top appliances..
Ive just finished runnning 2-20A circuits to my coutertop to run my Micro, toaster oven, toaster and coffee maker.
If this doesnt cover the 'code', than so be it. It is certainly alot better than it was orig wired previously.
If you're building a new home, Great. You can do all that is required by 'code', but to upgrade one's previous 'under-code' wiring is just too 'much' in my opinion. A fire!! - Unlikely.
But hey, Im not employed by the city of 'wherever', to inforce these codes.
Any improvement from a poorly wired kitchen from the past is better that leaving the old wiring to degrigate your home.
What I have done, (I sincerely doubt) would have any Negative consiquences with our usage of watts/amps.
But I do grant you and those who know, your knowledge is most appreciated and welcomed.
When (or if) the time comes that I build a new home, ALL this will be taken under consideration and advisement, which Im sure, the local inspectors will no doubt, be scrutinizing the wiring.......

 

I don't believe the "minimum of 5 20 amp branch circuits” is correct. At least, I have not seen this before. As pointed out by “Mr Fixit eh”, the total number of branch circuits depend on the counter top linear dimensions. A small kitchen may only require 2 20 amp branch circuits. 2 is the absolute minimum, since adjacent receptacles can not be on the same circuit. I would say, the average kitchen would require less than 5, since 5 20 amp circuits can serve up to 10 receptacles.

Maybe the “minimum of 5” statements comes from a local inspector?

 

...or maybe for a very large kitchen..with like 10 recepticles?!?!
In my case, our kitchen is only 11x17' with a linear countertop (for appliances) of 13' long. I think 2 (the min.) is sufficient. That covers the 4 (high wattage) appliances there. I have 1 duplex outlet on its own circuit and 2 on the other. Not adjacent circuits. and Ive used the 15a duplex outlets, giving me a total of 6 outlets should that be needed..which is unlikely. Seems to be sufficient.

 

Well, in theory if the kitchen was small enough, you could get away with only one 20A circuit--I'm not saying you should though. If the counter space on either side of the sink was less than 70 inches, then the code would only require one 20A circuit because the receptacles on either side of the sink are not considered adjacent, and you are allowed two 20A T-slot receptacles on one circuit. Use T-slot GFCI's and Bob's-your-Uncle. This would pass code, but I wouldn't recommend it.

The OP should check with his local and provincial electrical authorities to make sure they don't have any additional requirements.

All electrical work must be inspected by the electrical authority.

I just thought of another reason for using 15A multi-wire circuits...it does allow more 'juice' for consumption by countertop appliances. The 15A multi-wire circuit provides two receptacles served by 30A. The 20A circuit provides two receptacles served by only 20A.

Now I did notice that the ESA site does clarify that you can use 20A T-slots in multiwire circuits:

Question
Does the Code permit the installation of split 20 amp T-slot receptacles supplied by 20 amp multi-wire circuits along the wall behind a kitchen counter work surface?


Answer
Yes. The Code requires either 15 amp split or 20 amp single receptacles as a minimum standard. The installation of split T-slot receptacles and multiwire 20 amp circuits exceeds the minimum and meets the intent of the Code. There is no rule preventing the installation. The installation does not introduce any undue fire or shock hazard.

See Ontario Electrical Safety Code Rules 26-700, 26-712, 26-722 and 26-726.

Now, it's not clear whether you can do so using GFCI T-slots on the multiwire circuit. I'd assume that you can't because you can't use GFCI plugs on a 15A multiwire circuit, but that is not clear yet.

 

The code called for the use of CFCI breakers. I don’t see any way to use CFCI receptacles on a multiwire circuit, ether, 15 or 20 amp. It’s not technically possible. However, it is possible to use a 20 amp CFCI receptacles on a non-split 20 amp T-slots circuit. (and therefore save some money). Again, I am not sure the code allows this, not sure why? I don’t see a safety issue; in fact, it maybe more convenient to use a 20 amp CFCI receptacle, since it can be re-set from the kitchen.

What’s the code on this in the US?

 

Let's keep this thread focused on Canadian codes. Mixing in a discussion of U.S. codes would make this discussion hopelessly confusing. Let's just say that U.S. kitchen codes are a lot different.

GFCI receptacles can work on a multiwire circuit only if you don't connect a shared neutral to the load side. So that means that you must either split 12/3 into two 12/2s (i.e., no longer sharing the neutral), or use a GFCI at every outlet.