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About Bruce Grant
Expertise
I can answer any questions about residential electrical wiring and most questions about commercial wiring. In my own business, I insist on using best practices in all work we do (which to me means "to Code" or BETTER, using the most recommended ways to do things).
Experience
I'm 65, but learned wiring basics as a teenager. I only used this knowledge for myself, friends and family until early 2002, when economic downturns suddenly made my 30 years in IT irrelevant. Through the Internet, I bought many books on wiring and electrical code and switched careers, becoming an unlicensed electrical contractor, carpenter, and handyman. I now know, after 7 years in the industry, everything I need to get a California C-10 License except some of the Industrial wiring stuff (which I'll probably never use, but need to pass the test). The main reason I haven't yet obtained the License is lack of funds to pay for it and the required insurance. Eventually, I'll get it.
Education/Credentials
* BS in Physics and Mathematics from Oregon State University, 1967
* Primarily self-taught from books written for electrical and construction pros, but also informal training from more experienced pros
Past/Present Clients
homeowners and small businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area, mainly on the S.F. Peninsula
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You are here: Experts > Home/Garden > Home Improvement/Repair > Electrical Wiring in the Home > wiring microwave and refrigerator
Expert: Bruce Grant - 11/7/2009
Question
Hello Bruce: I'm installing an under-the-cabinet microwave in our kitchen against a wall that is also shared by a refrigerator. The existing single receptacle is wired by tube and knob which I'm eliminating of course. The microwave requires 120 V and the refrigerator, 115 V. What size wiring and breaker would you recommend if I put both of these appliances on the same circuit. Thank you for your time.
Answer
Terry,
I apologize for the delay in responding. We've suddenly had several family medical issues to deal with in the last few days, and I didn't check my e-mail until this afternoon.
I recommend separate circuits for these two uses because both tend to use large amounts of power intermittently, rather than continuously. Since you have knob-and-tube original wiring, it is likely that other receptacles or lights are on the same circuit, and modern electrical usage is generally greater than several decades ago (my house was built in 1928, so I've had to do quite a bit of rewiring and circuit addition, including replacing the main panel). Please check to see if there are additional things on that circuit.
In new kitchen construction or remodeling, two 20-Amp, GFCI-protected, small-appliance circuits, AND a separate refrigerator circuit are required. If there are major reasons why this is not feasible in the small changes you're making, then they can still, possibly, legally be on the same circuit (check with your local Building Dept. Electrical Inspector). If at all possible, I strongly urge you to install at least one additional circuit.
A combined-use circuit should be a minimum of 20 Amps, probably more (#12 wire or larger). If you could please send me a followup message with the Current requirements (Amps) for the refrigerator and microwave, I can immediately give you the correct answers you need and more complete recommendations. The microwave will have a plate or label with that information on its back or bottom (our microwave is 1350 Watts and requires 12.7 Amps). Refrigerators usually have the necessary information INSIDE where it's easily visible or on the door edge or frame (our refrigerator full load current is 6.5 Amps).
I look forward to your followup message.
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