2017 NEC Update—Part 3
“Where do I put receptacles?” —that is the question.
A couple of changes to Art 210.52 delve into this conundrum. Dwelling unit receptacle outlets are required in various places and in varying quantities in the dwelling. The convenience outlets shall be in addition to the receptacles found as part of luminaire or appliance, or as controlled by a wall switch controlled receptacle (for lighting) or located in cupboards or cabinets, or if located more than 5½ feet above the floor.
Determining Wall Space
A change in 210.52(A)(2), which determines what a wall space is, occurs in Part 1. Any space 2 ft wide or greater and unbroken by doorways or similar openings, etc. and fixed cabinets that do not have countertops or similar workspaces. In other words, if you have a countertop in cabinetry, the space occupied by the cabinet with a countertop is a wall space, and therefore does require a “wall space” consideration for receptacles.
Peninsular Countertops
Another change in the receptacle placement occurs for peninsula countertops. Instead of measuring from the connecting edge of the countertop, the peninsula now starts at the perpendicular wall. Therefore, the one required receptacle for the peninsula can be at the connecting wall and does not have to be installed along the peninsula. If you still want a receptacle at the end of the peninsula, you would need to follow 210.52(C)(5) Exception to (5) that allows the receptacle under the counter, not more than 12 inches below the counter top and only if the countertop does not extend more than 6 inches beyond the base cabinet.