Intro to Electrical Code

The National Electrical Code (NEC), also known as NFPA 70, provides safety standards for electrical installations across the United States. Its purpose is to protect individuals and property from hazards associated with electricity, prioritizing safety above efficiency, simplicity, or cost. Updated every three years, the NEC may be adopted, amended, or even rejected at the local or state level, resulting in variations in its implementation.

1. GFCI Protection

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

• Purpose: Protects individuals from electric shock by cutting off power when it detects an imbalance between hot and neutral wires.
• Implementation: Required in areas where moisture is present to reduce shock risk.
• Location Requirements:
  • Bathrooms
  • Kitchens (particularly for countertop outlets and dishwashers)
  • Laundry rooms
  • Garages
  • Outdoor outlets
  • Basements (unfinished)
• Exclusions: Large appliances like ovens and dryers.

2. AFCI Protection

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI)

• Purpose: Prevents fires by detecting arcing faults in damaged wires or cords.
• Implementation: Required in most residential areas with 120-volt circuits.
• Location Requirements:
  • Bedrooms
  • Living rooms
  • Dining rooms
  • Hallways
• Exclusions: AFCI is required for new constructions but is generally not mandatory for existing systems unless they are being updated or remodeled.

3. General Living Areas

Electrical Requirements for Living Rooms, Bedrooms, and Hallways

• Switches: A wall switch must be located near each entry door, controlling either a ceiling light or an outlet.
• Outlet Spacing: Outlets should be no more than 12 feet apart, with the first outlet within 6 feet of a wall edge.
• ADA Standards: Receptacles should be at least 15 inches above the floor and switches no more than 48-54 inches high.

4. Tamper-Resistant Receptacles

Safety Measures for Child Protection

• Function: Tamper-resistant receptacles have internal shutters that only open when two prongs are inserted simultaneously.
• Requirement Locations:
  • Living areas (rooms and hallways)
  • Kitchens
  • Bathrooms
  • Laundry rooms
  • Garages
  • Outdoor spaces
• Exceptions: Outlets over 5.5 feet above the floor, outlets in fixed appliances, and those in dedicated spaces.

5. Kitchen Electrical Requirements

Specialized Circuits and GFCI Protection

• Small Appliance Circuits: Requires at least two 20-amp circuits to handle multiple countertop appliances.
• Fixed Appliances: Appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwaves need dedicated circuits to avoid overloading.
• GFCI Requirements: All countertop outlets and any outlet within 6 feet of a sink must have GFCI protection.
• Outlet Spacing: Countertop outlets should be no more than four feet apart, with the first outlet within two feet of any countertop break.

6. Stairways, Hallways, and Closets

Lighting and Switching Standards

• Stairways: Three-way switches are required at the top and bottom of each stairway, with dimmer controls allowed if adjustable at both ends.
• Hallways: Hallways over 10 feet long must have at least one receptacle and three-way switches at each end.
• Closets: Lighting must be at least 12 inches from storage areas if surface-mounted, or 6 inches if recessed.

7. Bathroom Electrical Requirements

Circuit and Component Standards

• Ampacity: Requires 20-amp circuits to support high-current appliances like hair dryers.
• Receptacles and Lighting: Lighting and outlets can share the same circuit, and all outlets require GFCI protection.
• Outlet Placement: At least one outlet must be within 3 feet of the sink.
• Special Lighting: Fixtures near showers or baths must be rated for damp or wet locations.

8. Laundry Room and Garage

Dedicated Circuits and GFCI Standards

• Laundry Room:
  • Requires at least one 20-amp circuit for laundry equipment.
  • GFCI protection is necessary for all 120-volt outlets.
  • Electric dryers need a 30-amp, 240-volt dedicated circuit.
• Garage:
  • Requires GFCI protection for all outlets.
  • At least one outlet is needed per car space (e.g., three outlets for a three-car garage).
  • A dedicated 20-amp circuit should serve only the garage and can power outdoor outlets.