⚡Question Of The Week⚡

422.16(B)(4)

C

1200 watts dose not over load the circuit it should be good 422.16(B)(4)

⚡ Follow Up / My Breakdown ⚡

First off, awesome discussion on this one. I appreciate everyone who voted and jumped into the comments. This is exactly why I like posting these questions — we’re all learning.

The question is basically asking whether the 2026 NEC requires a dedicated branch circuit for a 1,200W cord-and-plug countertop microwave.

Based on how the question is written, the best answer is (C).

Here’s why:

• The required 20A small-appliance branch circuits are permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, and dining area.
210.11(C)(1) and 210.52(B)(1).

• Because this is a portable countertop microwave plugged into a receptacle, it is permitted to be supplied by one of those required small-appliance circuits.

• There is no NEC rule that says appliances over 1,000W must be on a dedicated circuit. That’s a pretty common misconception.

I also saw a few references to 422.16(B)(4). That section deals with when a cord-and-plug connection is permitted for certain microwave installations (cord length, receptacle location, accessibility, etc.), but it does not require an individual branch circuit.

The only time a microwave would require a dedicated circuit in this scenario would be if:

• Another NEC rule required it, or
• The manufacturer’s instructions required an individual circuit, which becomes enforceable under 110.3(B).

As written, a portable countertop microwave can be supplied by one of the required 20A small-appliance branch circuits.

Really appreciate everyone jumping in on this one. These discussions help all of us sharpen our code knowledge.

⚡ As always — we’re always learning.