Im an electrician from Maryland,and I love learning new codes,it keeps me sharp at work.A lot of my co-workers could care less,I take it home with me.I enjoy being the most informed electrician on any job,thanks again
Thank you. Well made video. Just finished a kitchen remodel and the peninsula outlet was a big question. Wife didn’t want to ruin the aesthetics on the end cabinet. I wanted it for the purpose of charging computers and cellphones. I get what you’re saying about heating devices getting dragged off the counter, but to refuse to install a permitable outlet because it might be used improperly seems a little extreme. I do appreciate your attention to safety. My wife appreciates the clean end cabinet.
From what I understand, outlets were added to kitchen islands because people were putting appliances like slow cookers on them and would string the cord across the aisle to the island...now people are saying they have to go for much the same reason.
I just purchased a new build home and I was so mad that there was no out let on the island, and it is a big island. I had one in my previous home that I sold and it was so useful. I used it for my kitchen aid, juicers and etc. Thanks for explaining, I don't like this change, but it is what it is.
A very good explanation of a contentious issue. I agree with your perspective of where liability falls in the event of a potentially litigious incident. As contractors we bear responsibility not only for code compliance, owner safety and convenience, but also any liability that may arise from our performance. As a side note, I installed a receptacle in the end of my kitchen peninsula during construction in 2005. I caught my cellphone holster in the attachment cord for an iron and pulled the iron off the countertop, resulting in a broken iron, a gouged cabinet panel, and a chipped tile. Let us heed the explanation of this code reference by Mr. Jackson.
Been licensed since 95 in Massachusetts, here's the thing I'm trying to understand. When I started we were always told we never wire for the future. We wire for today and they can't make us do what ifs scenarios. In fact, at one point in time they were making us put fan boxes in if there was an area greater than 2 ft circumference, what I recall a gentleman wrote a beautiful letter explaining the concept we're wiring for today. Not for tomorrows What ifs and how they legally couldn't make us And they removed that requirement, but it all came back. Something occurred. I'm trying to understand it. They made it possible to dictate all the possibilities in the future we must now be prepared for. Is it possible you can explain in a video, on how they're able to structure the code this way.
Here's another use case to consider for allowing below countertop receptacles in an island: a microwave receptacle in an open cubby below the island's countertop. I have that setup today in my kitchen (installed many years ago). The receptacle is located at the bottom of the cubby's rear wall and although it wasn't installed to serve the countertop (and, therefore, it presumably complies with the new code), the 36 inch cord, unmodified, on my air fryer will just reach it IF I place the air fryer right at the edge of the countertop. Not that I would do such a dangerous thing because I prefer to use the receptacle installed on the side wall of the island. That's the one we also used to use for plugging in a vacuum before we went cordless. LOL Good video and understandable, mostly, for this homeowner. Thanks!
I work in South Florida on 20-30 million dollar homes on a daily basis and some of the stuff you have to put outlets in with these countertops and these kitchen islands is getting ridiculous not to mention having to work with the cabinet guys themselves is almost impossible to get your stuff landed where it needs to go it's good to know that it's not a requirement now All you have to do is run a sleeve out there but nowadays everybody wants power so you know you got to get them the expensive pop-up outlets that they want underneath the marble countertop it's crazy. Not to mention I'm also pulling separate circuits for whatever ice maker maybe a little cooler disposal dishwasher all that stuff. Thanks for helping me understand between what's required by the code and what you can just do that was pretty cool and it's wild that I'm at this point in my career I find stuff like this fascinating and can't wait to take the test
Thank you so much! I've been researching how to get receptacles to an island and they were all putting them under the counter, on the sides(of course most of these videos were up to a few years old). Seeing this, I think I'm just going to go with my original plan of not adding power there. I have a grandchild that stays with me, and I think that would just be too much of a worry. Thanks again.
Great video. I always search your video library when I need information. If you have not made a video on the particular subject, I will search elsewhere; -But I can usually find it somewhere in your library. I even emailed you once, and you responded. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. (subscriber) Jim, from, Southern California.
That was a really good explanation. I was confused as to the whole optional, required, not required debokle. Im guess in the next code book it will require that the “sleeve” optional future island outlet be made accessible at the island. Only because if say it mounted down stairs under the island i could be missed/buried during basement finish. Oh the web we weave keeping people safe.
This is incredibly informative, thank you. Especially for a DIY idiot like me, lol. The kind of island I want to build will have wheels so it can be rolled out of the way when unused. The one thing I was worried about with an impermanent island was having to wire it to make it more permanent. I don't have small children so there's no risk of pulling, but I don't want the island to be energized because, for our uses, it's not necessary. It'll be like a restaurant prep table, only more finished.
About to remodel our kitchen. Was going to put an undertop outlet on new island...now you got me thinking more that a pop up would be much better. Thanks.
Thanks for the info! Planning on (as owner) adding an outlet at the end of a peninsula for Laptop/iPad charging while sitting on far side (opposite side to the kitchen area, with bar stools). I never thought about possibility scalding burns from cookware (& we have toddler grandchildren!) We will never use it for that, and will add a small sign stating “Not for Cookware!). BTW, having to run the charging cord across to the nearest wall outlet (~6 ft) also presents a cord trip hazard. Granite countertop supported by metal plate pretty much rules out a pop up outlet.
I have receptacles on the side of my island, but they are never used for hot containers. Use them all the time for chargers and food mixers. I built my house under NEC 70 2017 and I'm an electrical inspector.
Man.. some of the disagreements and arguments I have dealt with over the last 3 years with customers, contractors, and inspectors on this issue and getting the proper amount of legal receptacles on islands is all for not. Trying to explain to customers/contractors the amount of receptacles needed at the island with the 2020 code was like talking to a brick wall and at times having to force expensive pop in installs to make them compliant was a chore which at times required me getting the inspector involved. Seems strange to over extend and then pull back so far. I'm willing to bet on 2026 they will require a pop in on the countertop if no backsplash exists and this is just the setup for it. But I can't say I disagree with the normal spot for these receptacles on the ends being dangerous. Kids running around an island and hitting an appliance cord is a scenario which isn't hard to imagine.
Man, I feel your pain, I've been a commercial industrial type of electrician for most of my time , then I spent the last 5 years doing high-end residential( I found it really rounded my knowledge) want back to commercial, My heart goes out to the residentials!
The impression I got is that the kids don't accidentally hit the cords.... They pull on them deliberately. No surprise if they ban the island side receptacles in future.
All comes down to paying attention to your kids. We've had Islands with end receptacles in all our homes and never had an issue. My girls are 27 and 24 now. They weren't allowed to play in the kitchen when we were cooking.
We are modifying our kitchen and adding a kitchen island. We are in a state that still uses 2020. 1. Can we use NEC 2023 as that makes more sense to us? 2. Do we need an official inspection before and after the cabinet/island installation? 3. Moreover, how will a potential future buyer's inspection know when exactly the kitchen was updated? Assuming by then our state should be on the 2023 NEC anyway.
I'm in a similar situation, but in a state that still uses 2017, but is currently in the process of moving over to 2023(haven't moved over fully yet though), going by 2017 code means we'd have to sacrifice a drawer and it's front to make room or cut a hole in our waterfall countertop. My backup plan is to sacrifice the drawer if they require it, then once it's all inspected I'll rewire it to a box inside the cabinet(2023 code standards) and install the drawer.
Unfortunately plenty of states don't use the latest code because it hasn't been adopted by the legislative bodies. Some states, such as California are one code cycle behind the latest code. This gives them 3 years to adopt the latest code. Unfortunately the latest code may contain changes that are beneficial to the contractor and public but cannot be implemented because that year code book hasn't been adopted.
i always get a laugh or chuckle whenever i make a remark in class regarding something in your textbook, like "well i think the author was recommending this or that" esp with regards to the new big changes such as this one
Thank you Ryan. Glad I found your channel. I am not an electrician but can appreciate the evolution of the NEC. I was interested in how 2 duplex receptacles were installed in a new kitchen island, on the cabinet sides, per code. If I had to do it again I would install the pop up receptacles in the countertop, even if more costly. It does bother me when I see the slow cooker on the island with the cord draped over the countertop down to the receptacle. I think it is always better to plan for worst case scenarios. Like- we rarely have small children in the house, but there could be that occurrence and the possible accident caused by the portable appliance cord sticking out of the cabinet in a pathway.
You do a great job covering grey areas in the code. I would love to hear your thoughts on the Bocci 22 system receptacles being installed in Backsplashes. I read a lot of opinions about how they are or aren't a code violation because of buried junction boxes. Hope this is an idea for another great video in the future.
Pop ups aren’t always an option because the cabinets do not allow the space for them. The drawers can consume just about all of the real estate in a cabinet. Now what?
You wind up losing drawer space. You have to significantly shorten the drawer and mount the pop-up toward the back (my choice) , narrowing the drawer, notching the drawer (like for around a trap in a bathroom lav) or eliminating the drawer altogether and mounting a false front (like in front of a cooktop or sink).
This is interesting to me. I design industrial panels...I have nothing to do with residential. But, I remember that past code change(2020) that 'required' such outlets. Why? Because I listen to you and Mike Holt videos(some music too) while I'm doing CAD or calcs or whatever. Geeky me. I personally have gotten my foot engaged with a crock pot cord plugged into an under-counter receptacle (breakfast bar kind of thing). No one got burned or hurt but there was a lot of hot food on the floor and I looked like a fool. I thought(Engineers are supposed to think) geesh, what if a kid did that? I'm glad to see the change...almost from 'shall' to 'shall not' in the code. Not quite but close. The new language sounds like a lawyer's advice of language for backing out of a previous gaff in the code. No doubt lawyers review the code. It does make me wonder if the NFPA gets sued from time to time on such things.
We had a very gifted intelligent electrical inspector at IAEI meetings that brought up that he thought some of the fine print in the NEC were due to lawyers meddling in. Granted the pop up outlets cost more but that's what I would install if I had a kitchen island. If Kitchen is large enough for an island then the NEC should require them to be on their own 20 amp AFCI breaker that does not count against the minimum two required 20 amp counter top kitchen circuits.
Looking at the photo of the crockpot on the end of the penninsula with the below countertop recepticle... This can be made safe. I'm imagening something like a towel bar mounted on top of the end of the counter. If the cord runs under it theres no way to pull an appliance off. Even if the cord hangs over the top of the bar, it would be a substantial curb.
I'm in a bind here. Are there any outlets for islands which are sturdy, elegant, and that don't pop up? I hate the way they look, and believe they are just one more thing which will easily break in a busy kitchen. Obviously, an outlet in a cabinet is below the counter top. What if I put the outlet below the counter behind a small door (say 4x8 inches). Does that count as a tiny "cabinet"??? Might my code officer allow that?
I visited a house with an under-counter power strip. This was in the area where the countertop extended about 12 inches past the counter, for possible use as a seating area. It was primarily being used as a place to plug in phone and tablet chargers. I’m not a fan of outlets with USB or USB-C power, as this technology is rapidly changing. Yes, pop-top outlets would be possible, but ugly and generally too few for all the gadgets we typically plug in to charge, leading to use of power strips on a countertop. Unfortunately, this would still allow a portable cooking appliance and it’s associated hazards. I’m not sure on what the best answer is.
I had one installed to comply with 2020 (NJ) and i am going remove it after the inspection. It is a super easy safety hazard for those homes with little kids. Also, i am a 20+ year home owner. I lived in so many different homes and i never had to plug an appliance to an island receptacle. They are maybe good for vacuum cleaners and that's it....
Wow, I know about the counter top change but didn’t know you would still be able to install it below countertop still.. as a non required receptacle… I would just avoid it to cause confusion and worry about the the home owner using that receptacle for an appliance etc
I like your thoroughness in illuminating why code is the way it is. I’m an apprentice starting late (25) and I’m curious where I should start. I plan on going to school through my employer, and that’s all well and good, but I don’t want to spend months not knowing if I’m doing the right thing. Is there a book/guide/pamphlet that explains the basics.
I'm not a lawyer I'm not an electrician. Given that, because a receptacle is available does not mean it is required to use. Best practice for convenience of homeowners.. is the homeowner taking the best course of action for their safety of their loved ones? What if that sand customer use the receptacle above the counter and let the court dangle for that toddler over the counter... Is the electrician still responsible?
There’s a difference between best practice for homeowners and best practice for electricians. There’s no good reason for an electrician to install a receptacle below the surface, so don’t do it.
Hi Ryan - In today's world, with houses going for over $500K in average, why not just put ground fault breakers on every circuit in a house and avoid all of the confusion?
If everything we do had to be looked at from that perspective we wouldn’t be able to do ANYTHING because no matter what you do, someone will find a way of doing something stupid with it and claim it’s your fault. And as far as the inspector goes, you give them way too much credit for always trying to do the right thing. Yes there are lots of great inspectors out there but there are also a whole lot of egotistical know it alls too. In my town of about 35,000 people up until about 2 years ago we had a one man building department issuing and inspecting for all trades in every type of construction, now we’re all the way up to a two man department. They require stuff that doesn’t exist in the code while ignoring many very important items that are a big deal in most municipalities. I’m a retired master electrician and still keep my license from Michigan because Tennessee doesn’t even have a master classification, yet he won’t even issue me a permit to work in my own house because he won’t issue permits to homeowners. So I just do like everyone else and don’t get permits for anything.
Sounds like you have a bonafide idiot for code enforcement. I'd take that up with city council (unless of course his brother-in-law is the council president...LOL)
Thank you so much for the clarification you make it simple and clear. Really appreciate it. Wish everybody that explains the code was so clear. Thank you.
Hello there. Actually I like what you're saying and I actually think this is a good code change. I am guilty of installing receptacles below countertops on kitchen islands but only because I work in South Carolina and occasionally North Carolina which is just now adopting the 2020 NEC. I also like the new 2023 code requirement about requiring provisions for a future receptacle outlet, while it isn't perfect or might not be ideal I think it's a good compromise. I plan to start my own electrical business in the next couple to 5 yrs depending on the economy, and I will definitely be promoting listed countertop pop up receptacles to my perspective clients.
It was stupid to require receptacles on islands in the first place. And if you think adding a “future power” box won’t result in under counter receptacles being added later you’re nuts. Most electricians are not going to opt to cut granite. Real world logic.
@@AllTrac7200 I love to plug my kitchenaid or a juicer and use the island space. If not where do I put them, now I have to put a an extension cord to the island which is more dangerous letting people trip, hmm.
This is very timely (and probably got flagged by the algorithm due to all the "how to" videos I was just watching). I went to plug in an electric griddle to make Pancakes a few days ago, and the cord barely reached over the junk pile on the end of the counter, so I promptly started looking into what's involved in adding a new outlet on the end of my peninsula. I've also got 7 month old twins that aren't walking, yet, and I wear a camera holster on my belt that I'm frequently catching on things. I also have a fat wallet in the opposite cargo pocket which sticks out enough to catch things, sometimes. At present, we have our kitchen trash can under where I was considering adding the outlet, but that's just a glorified tall plastic bucket which can easily be relocated (and has been during some hosted holiday parties). So far I haven't started the outlet because I wasn't sure if there's asbestos tiles in the blank space under the cabinets, and I was going to get one from under the dishwasher tested, and I've got a kickspace on all three sides of my peninsula, so I was trying to decide on the best way of running the wire so it didn't come up in the middle of the cabinet, while also not coming through the open kick-space under the edge. Now you've got me reconsidering the entire project.
Our home builder didn’t install island receptacles. So if I understand correctly, they still have to provide an island conduit as a provision should I want one at a later time?? Is that correct????
I don’t have a 2023 copy (yet) so I don’t have the literature in front of me, but say you have an island that has a sink and it’s a step up island that has a higher portion of bar on the opposite side from the sink, thereby giving you a “backsplash” area on either side of the sink. Because it’s an island is the code saying that a receptacle is not required for those areas? I understand your “suggestion” that you could add receptacles as “additional” receptacles that aren’t required (and I would probably install them since the HO would use that space as working surface), I’m just wanting clarification for myself. Thanks for your videos!
So is having a receptacle below the countertop on a island or peninsula a code violation or is it just not recommended due to the potential legal issues
If receptacles are not required on islands I'm confused on why you said if this is a required receptacle this is a violation? 13:10 in the video? Can u give me a little clarification please and thank you.
I have a 15-inch countertop with a pocket door behind it, making it difficult if not impossible to put a receptacle in the wall. (Only 1-1/4" clearance). So my only option is a pop-up for that space? That cabinet is the end of the run.
This is another area where the committee needs to leave it alone. We added a requirement for an island receptacle because people were stringing extension cords to their island to run appliances. Now we don’t want people to use their islands for anything other than letting junk mail pile up because people were living like slobs and pulling hot items down onto them. Ultimately we can’t control that because people will go back to stringing extension cords and cooking anyways. Leave the one outlet rule in place and put the burden of safety back on the homeowner and appliance manufacturers
The pulling the cord reason is a nonsense to me because you can said the same thing for any plug in place equipment on top of table anywhere around the house(fish tank, TV,table lamp,stereo space heaters)anyone that believes that home owner in the future will call to cut the granite and install a pop up ! Good luck
Maybe foot traffic around an island or peninsula is much higher than an exterior wall of a room? Appliance cord management would be easier if the recepticle is above the countertop surface, rather than underneath around the corner (leaving the loop). 🤷 This is all just my very humble opinion.
210.52(C)(3) - Receptacles o New: Receptacles serving the kitchen countertop are no longer allowed to be located below the work surface. All receptacles required for the kitchen counter space must be located above the surface, or else be approved counter-mounted or pop-up receptacles.
@@simplewick350 correct. Just finished kitchen with outlets built under the cabinets. They have to meet the code. Reason is you have a 2ft appliance cord attached to kitchen appliances. It’s got to be able to sit on countertop. You go higher the appliance won’t be able to stay flat
Building a new house w kitchen island. Understand that island receptacles are not required. But as an optional receptacle, can I put receptacles on the island cabinet below the island countertop?
What about the knee wall, does not need a receptacle as part of the living room 12 foot general receptacles to be installed on that knee wall of the peninsula?
This is one of the dumbest code changes yet. All of the safety hazards mentioned in this video or by the CPSC are not solved by this code change (I.e.Cords can still hang over the side of the counter). This reminds me of the EPA regulating gas cans. People spill more now using the new gas cans than they did with the old cans. Hopefully in the next few years the code with change again and common sense will prevail. (I.e. as washer done with the dishwasher air gap).
As far as arguing with the inspector, the code always defers to the AHJ, Authority having jurisdiction. If the inspector says no, because it's unsafe, and his boss supports him, then it's no. If I was an I inspector, I would not allow under counter recepticals period. I would also push for a local requirement for some sort of safe outlet, since if there are no receptacles people will use dangerous extention cords. Also, I will not install an under counter receptacle
@@RobbieTullos Basically, yes. A receptacle installed for the purpose of serving the countertop is a violation. A receptacle installed for other purposes is not.
I know this is off topic, but props about mentioning the burn issue. It can't be emphasized enough that all you need to do is turn the handles so they can't be grabbed or bumped. Hot appliances should be pushed back as far as possible from the edge. First time parents often forget this because they are so sleep-deprived, and trying to figure out the whole parenting thing, so it's especially dangerous for the little ones once they start walking.
So I am at that point now. We failed the final for # of recepticles per 2020 code. My question is this, if our state Adopted 2020 code as of Jan 1,2023 but the 2023 code eliminated the island recepticles due to safety, should this not overrule the 2020 code of # recepticle requirements?
I'm dealing with this too. Currently pushing back on the inspector because we're being asked to add outlets that are no longer in compliance as of the 2023 code.
Government playing mom and dad again. This crap has to stop. Government cannot be allowed this much control over citizens. Government works "FOR" the people not to control the people. Unnecessary residential construction laws and regulations added over $10,000 to the build cost of the small house I "WAS" going to build. I'm done. I let my license lapse. I'm done.
a big question that I have for you is what would you consider a wet or damp location if you're running UF cable and you just run the wire out there do you need to sleeve it because is that technically a wet or damp location and then also it's in the slab is the UF wire should be rated for that or no?
So, has anyone tried to sue the NEC board for the requirement of receptacles mounted under the countertop of an island that has caused a death or injury? Seems like maybe something like one of those ads that say "if you have been injured or a loved one has died" could be coming.
I would put a USB type C receptacle under the countertop. That way, no cooking equipment can be plugged there but still can be used to charge devices. Also, the homeowners can still change it to a regular receptacle if they wish so later.
I was thinking along these same lines. We are redoing our kitchen and I plan on having a sink in our island while also rely heavily on the island as a worktop space and for casual dining. The pop up outlet would make me nervous but I can see family members needing it to charge their devices or work on their laptops.
So basically we don't have to change the way we are doing kitchens. But it's just not a good idea to put our outlets in the side anymore for island/peninsula .... terrible code change Edit: I'm surprised they didn't make the code more like a detached garage where the outlets/lighting is only repaired in a garage if you have power in the garage. Would be better code imo if they had the outlets above the counter for island/peninsulas only if power Routed to the island
No way I would specify one either, but now I feel bad about the ones we installed in the past. However I question the logic we just went through with you. Once you install one at an island, you are referred to the locations as per "required" outlets. So you can read the code to say it shall be installed only in these specific locations.
there's warnings on trash bags so we are only protecting the stupid. Thank you for the explanation. As for me and my house currently being built there will be outlets under the counter top.
Run conduit or a PVC pipe along the side of the Island as a cover for the cord and outlet, nothing too dramatic, just a bumper or keeping little hands away
Im an electrician from Maryland,and I love learning new codes,it keeps me sharp at work.A lot of my co-workers could care less,I take it home with me.I enjoy being the most informed electrician on any job,thanks again
One day you'll get a girlfriend and all that will change
@@hemetelectricalservices I want to party with this guy, lol
Thank you. Well made video. Just finished a kitchen remodel and the peninsula outlet was a big question. Wife didn’t want to ruin the aesthetics on the end cabinet. I wanted it for the purpose of charging computers and cellphones. I get what you’re saying about heating devices getting dragged off the counter, but to refuse to install a permitable outlet because it might be used improperly seems a little extreme. I do appreciate your attention to safety. My wife appreciates the clean end cabinet.
From what I understand, outlets were added to kitchen islands because people were putting appliances like slow cookers on them and would string the cord across the aisle to the island...now people are saying they have to go for much the same reason.
Thanks for that clarification, must admit that I had misread that change myself.
Stay safe and keep on setting the record straight for us.
I just purchased a new build home and I was so mad that there was no out let on the island, and it is a big island. I had one in my previous home that I sold and it was so useful. I used it for my kitchen aid, juicers and etc. Thanks for explaining, I don't like this change, but it is what it is.
Thanks for the insight.
A very good explanation of a contentious issue. I agree with your perspective of where liability falls in the event of a potentially litigious incident.
As contractors we bear responsibility not only for code compliance, owner safety and convenience, but also any liability that may arise from our performance.
As a side note, I installed a receptacle in the end of my kitchen peninsula during construction in 2005. I caught my cellphone holster in the attachment cord for an iron and pulled the iron off the countertop, resulting in a broken iron, a gouged cabinet panel, and a chipped tile.
Let us heed the explanation of this code reference by Mr. Jackson.
Been licensed since 95 in Massachusetts, here's the thing I'm trying to understand. When I started we were always told we never wire for the future. We wire for today and they can't make us do what ifs scenarios.
In fact, at one point in time they were making us put fan boxes in if there was an area greater than 2 ft circumference, what I recall a gentleman wrote a beautiful letter explaining the concept we're wiring for today. Not for tomorrows What ifs and how they legally couldn't make us And they removed that requirement, but it all came back. Something occurred. I'm trying to understand it. They made it possible to dictate all the possibilities in the future we must now be prepared for.
Is it possible you can explain in a video, on how they're able to structure the code this way.
Glad i watched this video. No outlet at island in our new house.
Here's another use case to consider for allowing below countertop receptacles in an island: a microwave receptacle in an open cubby below the island's countertop. I have that setup today in my kitchen (installed many years ago). The receptacle is located at the bottom of the cubby's rear wall and although it wasn't installed to serve the countertop (and, therefore, it presumably complies with the new code), the 36 inch cord, unmodified, on my air fryer will just reach it IF I place the air fryer right at the edge of the countertop. Not that I would do such a dangerous thing because I prefer to use the receptacle installed on the side wall of the island. That's the one we also used to use for plugging in a vacuum before we went cordless. LOL Good video and understandable, mostly, for this homeowner. Thanks!
Please add an url of those receptacles that you recommend
I work in South Florida on 20-30 million dollar homes on a daily basis and some of the stuff you have to put outlets in with these countertops and these kitchen islands is getting ridiculous not to mention having to work with the cabinet guys themselves is almost impossible to get your stuff landed where it needs to go it's good to know that it's not a requirement now All you have to do is run a sleeve out there but nowadays everybody wants power so you know you got to get them the expensive pop-up outlets that they want underneath the marble countertop it's crazy. Not to mention I'm also pulling separate circuits for whatever ice maker maybe a little cooler disposal dishwasher all that stuff. Thanks for helping me understand between what's required by the code and what you can just do that was pretty cool and it's wild that I'm at this point in my career I find stuff like this fascinating and can't wait to take the test
Thank you so much! I've been researching how to get receptacles to an island and they were all putting them under the counter, on the sides(of course most of these videos were up to a few years old). Seeing this, I think I'm just going to go with my original plan of not adding power there. I have a grandchild that stays with me, and I think that would just be too much of a worry. Thanks again.
This is wild. My pops has the same name and runs a commercial HVAC department. Great video!
Great video. I always search your video library when I need information. If you have not made a video on the particular subject, I will search elsewhere; -But I can usually find it somewhere in your library. I even emailed you once, and you responded. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. (subscriber) Jim, from, Southern California.
Welcome back Ryan. Always good to see you posting
That was a really good explanation. I was confused as to the whole optional, required, not required debokle. Im guess in the next code book it will require that the “sleeve” optional future island outlet be made accessible at the island. Only because if say it mounted down stairs under the island i could be missed/buried during basement finish. Oh the web we weave keeping people safe.
This is incredibly informative, thank you. Especially for a DIY idiot like me, lol. The kind of island I want to build will have wheels so it can be rolled out of the way when unused. The one thing I was worried about with an impermanent island was having to wire it to make it more permanent. I don't have small children so there's no risk of pulling, but I don't want the island to be energized because, for our uses, it's not necessary. It'll be like a restaurant prep table, only more finished.
So glad i found your channel. I'm eating the code up! Thank you so much Ryan
Excellent and timely information - I'm about to remodel my kitchen island and kitchen and wanted to do something different with the outlets.
About to remodel our kitchen. Was going to put an undertop outlet on new island...now you got me thinking more that a pop up would be much better. Thanks.
Harder to do a pop-up with a counter top. There's no real point to doing so other than "being cool" but awfully complicated!
Thank you. I didn’t know of this change. About time this was adopted/ changed
Thanks for the info! Planning on (as owner) adding an outlet at the end of a peninsula for Laptop/iPad charging while sitting on far side (opposite side to the kitchen area, with bar stools). I never thought about possibility scalding burns from cookware (& we have toddler grandchildren!) We will never use it for that, and will add a small sign stating “Not for Cookware!). BTW, having to run the charging cord across to the nearest wall outlet (~6 ft) also presents a cord trip hazard. Granite countertop supported by metal plate pretty much rules out a pop up outlet.
I have receptacles on the side of my island, but they are never used for hot containers. Use them all the time for chargers and food mixers. I built my house under NEC 70 2017 and I'm an electrical inspector.
Great! Insight and information. This has helped me tremendously. I want to install recepticals on my peninsula island.
Man.. some of the disagreements and arguments I have dealt with over the last 3 years with customers, contractors, and inspectors on this issue and getting the proper amount of legal receptacles on islands is all for not. Trying to explain to customers/contractors the amount of receptacles needed at the island with the 2020 code was like talking to a brick wall and at times having to force expensive pop in installs to make them compliant was a chore which at times required me getting the inspector involved. Seems strange to over extend and then pull back so far. I'm willing to bet on 2026 they will require a pop in on the countertop if no backsplash exists and this is just the setup for it. But I can't say I disagree with the normal spot for these receptacles on the ends being dangerous. Kids running around an island and hitting an appliance cord is a scenario which isn't hard to imagine.
Man, I feel your pain, I've been a commercial industrial type of electrician for most of my time , then I spent the last 5 years doing high-end residential( I found it really rounded my knowledge) want back to commercial, My heart goes out to the residentials!
@@chrisf3875. Thank you for your understanding.
The impression I got is that the kids don't accidentally hit the cords.... They pull on them deliberately. No surprise if they ban the island side receptacles in future.
All comes down to paying attention to your kids. We've had Islands with end receptacles in all our homes and never had an issue. My girls are 27 and 24 now. They weren't allowed to play in the kitchen when we were cooking.
We are modifying our kitchen and adding a kitchen island. We are in a state that still uses 2020.
1. Can we use NEC 2023 as that makes more sense to us?
2. Do we need an official inspection before and after the cabinet/island installation?
3. Moreover, how will a potential future buyer's inspection know when exactly the kitchen was updated? Assuming by then our state should be on the 2023 NEC anyway.
I'm in a similar situation, but in a state that still uses 2017, but is currently in the process of moving over to 2023(haven't moved over fully yet though), going by 2017 code means we'd have to sacrifice a drawer and it's front to make room or cut a hole in our waterfall countertop. My backup plan is to sacrifice the drawer if they require it, then once it's all inspected I'll rewire it to a box inside the cabinet(2023 code standards) and install the drawer.
Unfortunately plenty of states don't use the latest code because it hasn't been adopted by the legislative bodies. Some states, such as California are one code cycle behind the latest code. This gives them 3 years to adopt the latest code. Unfortunately the latest code may contain changes that are beneficial to the contractor and public but cannot be implemented because that year code book hasn't been adopted.
i always get a laugh or chuckle whenever i make a remark in class regarding something in your textbook, like "well i think the author was recommending this or that" esp with regards to the new big changes such as this one
I suspect 2-level countertops for islands and peninsulas are going to become more popular just to have a minimal backsplash area for outlets.
Thanks Ryan glad to see a new video up
Would an outlet plate cover over an outlet below counter height qualify as complying for future use and as not having one per the 2023 code?
Thank you Ryan. Glad I found your channel. I am not an electrician but can appreciate the evolution of the NEC. I was interested in how 2 duplex receptacles were installed in a new kitchen island, on the cabinet sides, per code. If I had to do it again I would install the pop up receptacles in the countertop, even if more costly. It does bother me when I see the slow cooker on the island with the cord draped over the countertop down to the receptacle. I think it is always better to plan for worst case scenarios. Like- we rarely have small children in the house, but there could be that occurrence and the possible accident caused by the portable appliance cord sticking out of the cabinet in a pathway.
Wish they'd made this change back when I did new construction. I hated doing all those island receptacles.
You do a great job covering grey areas in the code. I would love to hear your thoughts on the Bocci 22 system receptacles being installed in Backsplashes. I read a lot of opinions about how they are or aren't a code violation because of buried junction boxes. Hope this is an idea for another great video in the future.
Pop ups aren’t always an option because the cabinets do not allow the space for them. The drawers can consume just about all of the real estate in a cabinet. Now what?
Modify the drawers to allow for the space, or better yet plan to provide cabinets that will already accommodate.
You wind up losing drawer space. You have to significantly shorten the drawer and mount the pop-up toward the back (my choice) , narrowing the drawer, notching the drawer (like for around a trap in a bathroom lav) or eliminating the drawer altogether and mounting a false front (like in front of a cooktop or sink).
I just did surface pop ups and i just made a space in between the cabinets for them. Make the center cabinet a "21 deep and the others "24.
RYAN BRUH!! YOU DA FUKKIN MAN . REAL OG CERTIFIED 💯 🙌
This is interesting to me. I design industrial panels...I have nothing to do with residential. But, I remember that past code change(2020) that 'required' such outlets. Why? Because I listen to you and Mike Holt videos(some music too) while I'm doing CAD or calcs or whatever. Geeky me.
I personally have gotten my foot engaged with a crock pot cord plugged into an under-counter receptacle (breakfast bar kind of thing). No one got burned or hurt but there was a lot of hot food on the floor and I looked like a fool. I thought(Engineers are supposed to think) geesh, what if a kid did that?
I'm glad to see the change...almost from 'shall' to 'shall not' in the code. Not quite but close.
The new language sounds like a lawyer's advice of language for backing out of a previous gaff in the code. No doubt lawyers review the code.
It does make me wonder if the NFPA gets sued from time to time on such things.
We had a very gifted intelligent electrical inspector at IAEI meetings that brought up that he thought some of the fine print in the NEC were due to lawyers meddling in. Granted the pop up outlets cost more but that's what I would install if I had a kitchen island. If Kitchen is large enough for an island then the NEC should require them to be on their own 20 amp AFCI breaker that does not count against the minimum two required 20 amp counter top kitchen circuits.
Thank you Ryan for your time and expertise on this matter i appreciate your advise.
Excellent video, thanks Ryan. 👍🏼
Great discussion and commentary.
Looking at the photo of the crockpot on the end of the penninsula with the below countertop recepticle...
This can be made safe. I'm imagening something like a towel bar mounted on top of the end of the counter. If the cord runs under it theres no way to pull an appliance off. Even if the cord hangs over the top of the bar, it would be a substantial curb.
Thank you Ryan! As always your information is clear and concise. I only wish the NEC could have you write the code
Ryan has written many codes.
I'm in a bind here. Are there any outlets for islands which are sturdy, elegant, and that don't pop up? I hate the way they look, and believe they are just one more thing which will easily break in a busy kitchen.
Obviously, an outlet in a cabinet is below the counter top.
What if I put the outlet below the counter behind a small door (say 4x8 inches). Does that count as a tiny "cabinet"??? Might my code officer allow that?
I visited a house with an under-counter power strip. This was in the area where the countertop extended about 12 inches past the counter, for possible use as a seating area. It was primarily being used as a place to plug in phone and tablet chargers. I’m not a fan of outlets with USB or USB-C power, as this technology is rapidly changing. Yes, pop-top outlets would be possible, but ugly and generally too few for all the gadgets we typically plug in to charge, leading to use of power strips on a countertop. Unfortunately, this would still allow a portable cooking appliance and it’s associated hazards. I’m not sure on what the best answer is.
I had one installed to comply with 2020 (NJ) and i am going remove it after the inspection. It is a super easy safety hazard for those homes with little kids. Also, i am a 20+ year home owner. I lived in so many different homes and i never had to plug an appliance to an island receptacle.
They are maybe good for vacuum cleaners and that's it....
Wow, I know about the counter top change but didn’t know you would still be able to install it below countertop still.. as a non required receptacle… I would just avoid it to cause confusion and worry about the the home owner using that receptacle for an appliance etc
I like your thoroughness in illuminating why code is the way it is. I’m an apprentice starting late (25) and I’m curious where I should start. I plan on going to school through my employer, and that’s all well and good, but I don’t want to spend months not knowing if I’m doing the right thing. Is there a book/guide/pamphlet that explains the basics.
I'm not a lawyer I'm not an electrician. Given that, because a receptacle is available does not mean it is required to use. Best practice for convenience of homeowners.. is the homeowner taking the best course of action for their safety of their loved ones?
What if that sand customer use the receptacle above the counter and let the court dangle for that toddler over the counter... Is the electrician still responsible?
There’s a difference between best practice for homeowners and best practice for electricians. There’s no good reason for an electrician to install a receptacle below the surface, so don’t do it.
Anthony; that's why a lot of appliance have short cords-to prevent dangling cords over counter top edges.
Thank you Ryan.
Very helpful videos. God bless you
Hi Ryan - In today's world, with houses going for over $500K in average, why not just put ground fault breakers on every circuit in a house and avoid all of the confusion?
Money, people dont want to spend more than they have to.
If everything we do had to be looked at from that perspective we wouldn’t be able to do ANYTHING because no matter what you do, someone will find a way of doing something stupid with it and claim it’s your fault. And as far as the inspector goes, you give them way too much credit for always trying to do the right thing. Yes there are lots of great inspectors out there but there are also a whole lot of egotistical know it alls too. In my town of about 35,000 people up until about 2 years ago we had a one man building department issuing and inspecting for all trades in every type of construction, now we’re all the way up to a two man department. They require stuff that doesn’t exist in the code while ignoring many very important items that are a big deal in most municipalities. I’m a retired master electrician and still keep my license from Michigan because Tennessee doesn’t even have a master classification, yet he won’t even issue me a permit to work in my own house because he won’t issue permits to homeowners. So I just do like everyone else and don’t get permits for anything.
Sounds like you have a bonafide idiot for code enforcement. I'd take that up with city council (unless of course his brother-in-law is the council president...LOL)
Thank you so much for the clarification you make it simple and clear. Really appreciate it. Wish everybody that explains the code was so clear. Thank you.
Hello there. Actually I like what you're saying and I actually think this is a good code change. I am guilty of installing receptacles below countertops on kitchen islands but only because I work in South Carolina and occasionally North Carolina which is just now adopting the 2020 NEC. I also like the new 2023 code requirement about requiring provisions for a future receptacle outlet, while it isn't perfect or might not be ideal I think it's a good compromise. I plan to start my own electrical business in the next couple to 5 yrs depending on the economy, and I will definitely be promoting listed countertop pop up receptacles to my perspective clients.
It was stupid to require receptacles on islands in the first place. And if you think adding a “future power” box won’t result in under counter receptacles being added later you’re nuts. Most electricians are not going to opt to cut granite. Real world logic.
Great video champ. Thanks!
Ryan, I love the explanation, hate the actual answer.
Not required but allowed. And if something negative occurs its potential lawsuit. Yep clear as mud....
As someone who finds installing island outlets a huge pain, I love the change.
how is a pop-up countertop outlet less pain?
@@quitstalin not installing any outlets is less of a pain. But pop ups are to bad if you prep for them right
@@AllTrac7200 not being able to plug in my stand mixer because no outlets were installed is the biggest pain of all
@@AllTrac7200 I love to plug my kitchenaid or a juicer and use the island space. If not where do I put them, now I have to put a an extension cord to the island which is more dangerous letting people trip, hmm.
This is very timely (and probably got flagged by the algorithm due to all the "how to" videos I was just watching). I went to plug in an electric griddle to make Pancakes a few days ago, and the cord barely reached over the junk pile on the end of the counter, so I promptly started looking into what's involved in adding a new outlet on the end of my peninsula. I've also got 7 month old twins that aren't walking, yet, and I wear a camera holster on my belt that I'm frequently catching on things. I also have a fat wallet in the opposite cargo pocket which sticks out enough to catch things, sometimes. At present, we have our kitchen trash can under where I was considering adding the outlet, but that's just a glorified tall plastic bucket which can easily be relocated (and has been during some hosted holiday parties). So far I haven't started the outlet because I wasn't sure if there's asbestos tiles in the blank space under the cabinets, and I was going to get one from under the dishwasher tested, and I've got a kickspace on all three sides of my peninsula, so I was trying to decide on the best way of running the wire so it didn't come up in the middle of the cabinet, while also not coming through the open kick-space under the edge.
Now you've got me reconsidering the entire project.
Our home builder didn’t install island receptacles. So if I understand correctly, they still have to provide an island conduit as a provision should I want one at a later time?? Is that correct????
Does this just apply to new builds? Will it matter if I'm just adding an island later?
I don’t have a 2023 copy (yet) so I don’t have the literature in front of me, but say you have an island that has a sink and it’s a step up island that has a higher portion of bar on the opposite side from the sink, thereby giving you a “backsplash” area on either side of the sink. Because it’s an island is the code saying that a receptacle is not required for those areas? I understand your “suggestion” that you could add receptacles as “additional” receptacles that aren’t required (and I would probably install them since the HO would use that space as working surface), I’m just wanting clarification for myself. Thanks for your videos!
So is having a receptacle below the countertop on a island or peninsula a code violation or is it just not recommended due to the potential legal issues
That’s what I want to know
If receptacles are not required on islands I'm confused on why you said if this is a required receptacle this is a violation? 13:10 in the video? Can u give me a little clarification please and thank you.
I have a 15-inch countertop with a pocket door behind it, making it difficult if not impossible to put a receptacle in the wall. (Only 1-1/4" clearance). So my only option is a pop-up for that space? That cabinet is the end of the run.
This is another area where the committee needs to leave it alone. We added a requirement for an island receptacle because people were stringing extension cords to their island to run appliances. Now we don’t want people to use their islands for anything other than letting junk mail pile up because people were living like slobs and pulling hot items down onto them. Ultimately we can’t control that because people will go back to stringing extension cords and cooking anyways. Leave the one outlet rule in place and put the burden of safety back on the homeowner and appliance manufacturers
The pulling the cord reason is a nonsense to me because you can said the same thing for any plug in place equipment on top of table anywhere around the house(fish tank, TV,table lamp,stereo space heaters)anyone that believes that home owner in the future will call to cut the granite and install a pop up ! Good luck
Agreed
Yea but in this case something hot can truly burn and scar a kid for life vs just breaking an appliance or something trivial in comparison
Maybe foot traffic around an island or peninsula is much higher than an exterior wall of a room? Appliance cord management would be easier if the recepticle is above the countertop surface, rather than underneath around the corner (leaving the loop). 🤷 This is all just my very humble opinion.
10,000 injuries say otherwise.
i don’t keep vats of hot oil on my nightstand
210.52(C)(3) - Receptacles o New: Receptacles serving the kitchen countertop are no longer allowed to be located below the work surface. All receptacles required for the kitchen counter space must be located above the surface, or else be approved counter-mounted or pop-up receptacles.
Do kitchen undercabinet receptacle strips satisfy the countertop/worsurface required receptacles, even though they are usually above 20in.
No. If there at 20.5 you wouldn’t meet code. You would need to drop cabinets
@jason ault OK thanks. I just see it often where people don't want anything on their backsplash protruding.
@@simplewick350 correct. Just finished kitchen with outlets built under the cabinets. They have to meet the code. Reason is you have a 2ft appliance cord attached to kitchen appliances. It’s got to be able to sit on countertop. You go higher the appliance won’t be able to stay flat
2 solutions are 1 build a wider backsplash and install there or 2 install a outlet under counter with a push in slot for cords from countertop
Building a new house w kitchen island. Understand that island receptacles are not required. But as an optional receptacle, can I put receptacles on the island cabinet below the island countertop?
Can you? Yes. Should you? Hell no.
Excellent explanation! Thank you
What about the knee wall, does not need a receptacle as part of the living room 12 foot general receptacles to be installed on that knee wall of the peninsula?
This is one of the dumbest code changes yet.
All of the safety hazards mentioned in this video or by the CPSC are not solved by this code change (I.e.Cords can still hang over the side of the counter). This reminds me of the EPA regulating gas cans. People spill more now using the new gas cans than they did with the old cans. Hopefully in the next few years the code with change again and common sense will prevail. (I.e. as washer done with the dishwasher air gap).
As far as arguing with the inspector, the code always defers to the AHJ, Authority having jurisdiction. If the inspector says no, because it's unsafe, and his boss supports him, then it's no. If I was an I inspector, I would not allow under counter recepticals period. I would also push for a local requirement for some sort of safe outlet, since if there are no receptacles people will use dangerous extention cords. Also, I will not install an under counter receptacle
So now I'm going to run an extension cord to the island for someone to trip over and knock that boiling instant pot to the ground?
No, put the outlet on top so the cord doesn't have to hang over the side.
@@marklundeberg7006 sure, as if it is so easy to put a popup through a granite/marble counter.
Thanks for clearing that up.
So, you can still have a receptacle below the countertop, but it may not pass inspection? Am I hearing that right?
@@RobbieTullos Basically, yes. A receptacle installed for the purpose of serving the countertop is a violation. A receptacle installed for other purposes is not.
I know this is off topic, but props about mentioning the burn issue. It can't be emphasized enough that all you need to do is turn the handles so they can't be grabbed or bumped. Hot appliances should be pushed back as far as possible from the edge. First time parents often forget this because they are so sleep-deprived, and trying to figure out the whole parenting thing, so it's especially dangerous for the little ones once they start walking.
So I am at that point now. We failed the final for # of recepticles per 2020 code. My question is this, if our state Adopted 2020 code as of Jan 1,2023 but the 2023 code eliminated the island recepticles due to safety, should this not overrule the 2020 code of # recepticle requirements?
I'm dealing with this too. Currently pushing back on the inspector because we're being asked to add outlets that are no longer in compliance as of the 2023 code.
Talk to your building official.
What about if you have a pass-through window 8 feet wide with no wall space for a receptacle to be placed 24" from sink on either side?
Government playing mom and dad again. This crap has to stop. Government cannot be allowed this much control over citizens. Government works "FOR" the people not to control the people. Unnecessary residential construction laws and regulations added over $10,000 to the build cost of the small house I "WAS" going to build. I'm done. I let my license lapse. I'm done.
I agree with you.... keep the outlets either on the counter top or wall when a wall is present.
Thanks Ryan!
a big question that I have for you is what would you consider a wet or damp location if you're running UF cable and you just run the wire out there do you need to sleeve it because is that technically a wet or damp location and then also it's in the slab is the UF wire should be rated for that or no?
Thanks for this very clear explaination!
Watching this video and glancing over at my below countertop island receptacle. 🤣
Are Quad CGFI receptacles OK?
So, has anyone tried to sue the NEC board for the requirement of receptacles mounted under the countertop of an island that has caused a death or injury?
Seems like maybe something like one of those ads that say "if you have been injured or a loved one has died" could be coming.
I would put a USB type C receptacle under the countertop. That way, no cooking equipment can be plugged there but still can be used to charge devices. Also, the homeowners can still change it to a regular receptacle if they wish so later.
I was thinking along these same lines. We are redoing our kitchen and I plan on having a sink in our island while also rely heavily on the island as a worktop space and for casual dining. The pop up outlet would make me nervous but I can see family members needing it to charge their devices or work on their laptops.
So basically we don't have to change the way we are doing kitchens. But it's just not a good idea to put our outlets in the side anymore for island/peninsula .... terrible code change
Edit: I'm surprised they didn't make the code more like a detached garage where the outlets/lighting is only repaired in a garage if you have power in the garage. Would be better code imo if they had the outlets above the counter for island/peninsulas only if power Routed to the island
I'm fighting a home depot right now about this. They are trying to force a client to install an outlet in an island and they don't want one. 🤷♂️
No way I would specify one either, but now I feel bad about the ones we installed in the past. However I question the logic we just went through with you. Once you install one at an island, you are referred to the locations as per "required" outlets. So you can read the code to say it shall be installed only in these specific locations.
So those island or peninsula receptacle have to be on 20amp appliance circuit or can be 15amp?
there's warnings on trash bags so we are only protecting the stupid. Thank you for the explanation. As for me and my house currently being built there will be outlets under the counter top.
Excellent. Thanks
My question is if the new 2023 electrical code for kitchen Island receptacle apply for electrical permits that have been submitted before 2023?
so if I am putting in a whole new kitchen, how do I determine where the "required" outlets go for a peninsula and island?
None are required.
Run conduit or a PVC pipe along the side of the Island as a cover for the cord and outlet, nothing too dramatic, just a bumper or keeping little hands away
great, informative video!
Hey Ryan I am looking forward to the updated 2023 article 100 videos for all definitions! haha
Lol. 800 days of Article 100