We are finally renovating our kitchen after settling into our first home, a 1960's bungalow. I am replacing the original kitchen cabinets that are over 40 years old and would like to make some electrical upgrades as well. When I first moved in we had one counter outlet which I changed to a GFCI receptacle, we also had the electrical panel changed from fuses to breakers (100amp). I would like to add another receptacle within 1 metre of the new sink. My question is, can I run a new circuit on a regular 20amp breaker with a GFCI receptacle or do I have to install a 20 amp GFI breaker in the panel.
Answer:
Your local power authority will tell you all about it when you apply for an electrical permit. They may even complain about having a duplex outlet within a metre of the sink so be prepared and in your frustration, keep in mind that they're there to keep you and me safely alive.
Courtesy of Ren Molnar, Construction Consultant at HomeFocus.com. I can also be reached at (613) 748-3003 and Home Focus – The Radio Show is broadcast live 8 to 10 A.M. (Ottawa, Ont. time) on Saturdays on www.cfra.com.
