In a kitchen with a countertop width of 13", is receptacle 9 required by the NEC®?

In determining whether a receptacle is required in a kitchen with a countertop width of 13 inches, we need to reference the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards for kitchen receptacles. The NEC specifies that receptacles must be installed for countertop surfaces to ensure the availability of electrical supply for kitchen appliances that may be used on these surfaces.

According to the NEC, any countertop space that measures 12 inches or wider is considered a space that requires a receptacle. A countertop width of 13 inches exceeds this minimum requirement, which means that a receptacle is indeed necessary. The code mandates that receptacles should be placed so that no point along the countertop is more than 24 inches from a receptacle outlet, thereby promoting electrical safety and convenience in kitchen design.

This requirement ensures that appliances can be plugged in safely without the need for extension cords, reducing the risk of electrical hazards. Thus, because the countertop in question exceeds the minimum width and aligns with NEC guidelines, the correct determination is that a receptacle is required.