Article 210 — Branch Circuits

Purpose

Article 210 of the National Electrical Code® (NEC®) defines the requirements for branch circuits — the final wiring that delivers power from panelboards to outlets, lighting, and equipment.

It ensures branch circuits are safely sized, protected, and installed to prevent overheating and electrical hazards.

Key Concepts

1. Definition (210.2) A branch circuit is the portion of wiring between the final overcurrent protection device and the connected outlets or loads.
2. Circuit Rating (210.19 & 210.20)
   • Conductors must be rated to carry not less than 125 % of the continuous load.
   • The overcurrent device (breaker or fuse) must protect conductors per their ampacity.
   • Typical ratings: 15 A, 20 A, 30 A, and higher for special circuits.
3. Required Branch Circuits (210.11)
   • Dwelling units must have:
     • Two or more 20 A small-appliance circuits (kitchen, pantry, dining).
     • One 20 A laundry circuit.
     • Dedicated circuits for major appliances — HVAC, dryers, ranges, etc.
4. Receptacle Placement (210.52)
   • General rooms: Receptacles so that no wall space > 6 ft from one.
   • Kitchens: Outlets above countertops every 4 ft, serving all usable counter space.
   • Bathrooms: At least one 20 A receptacle within 3 ft of sink basin.
   • Outdoor and garage: GFCI-protected outlets required.
5. GFCI & AFCI Protection (210.8 & 210.12)
   • GFCI: Bathrooms, kitchens, outdoors, garages, basements, laundry areas.
   • AFCI: Bedrooms, living areas, hallways — nearly all dwelling circuits in newer NEC editions.
6. Multi-wire Branch Circuits (210.4)
   • Shared neutral conductors must have simultaneous disconnecting means.
   • Conductors must originate from the same panelboard and share the same phase relationship.
7. Identification & Labeling
   • Each circuit in the panel must be clearly marked to identify its loads.
   • Receptacles on different circuits in the same area should be labeled if not obvious.

⚙️ Key Takeaways

• Proper circuit sizing and protection are essential for fire prevention.
• Dedicated 20 A circuits are required for kitchens, laundry, and bathrooms.
• GFCI and AFCI protection saves lives — verify per latest NEC edition.
• Always label circuits clearly for inspection and safety.