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Just found out the NEC code for AFCI protection in kitchens changed in 2020

I was reading through the 2023 code book update notes and saw that the rule for arc-fault breakers on kitchen countertop outlets got moved from 210.12 to 210.8. I always thought it was just for bedrooms and living areas. Has anyone else had to update their kitchen wiring plans because of this?
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4 Comments
emma_rodriguez30
Oh man, tell me about it. I just had to redo the plans for my kitchen reno last month because of that. My electrician caught it and was like "Yeah, all those counter plugs need AFCI now, it's a Thing." I was so confused because I thought it was just for bedrooms too. Added a couple hundred bucks to the job, for sure. The code changes just keep coming.
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miller.thomas
Ugh, the code book is basically a subscription service at this point. Good thing @jake747 mentioned checking with the inspector, mine would have failed me for sure over that.
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jake747
jake74715d ago
Check if your local inspectors are even enforcing that yet.
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charles_baker28
Call your inspector before you order any materials.
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