I've been given the job to re-wire a small duplex.
The building is divided into two units of different size, and each has it's own meter. One unit is an 'efficiency,' of about 400 sq. ft, while the other is a 1-bedroom at about 500 sq. ft. Both have complete kitchens. Stove, heat, and water heaters are gas, with electric ignition. Air conditioning is a MUST.
My question is: how many circuits do I need for each unit? My first 'quick glance' says 10. If that's the case, I think the accumulated recent code requirements are a bit excessive.
As I see it, each unit will require:
2 breaker spaces for the AC;
1 for the furnace igniter;
2 SABC's for the cooking areas;
1 for non-counter kitchen uses;
1 for the bathroom;
1/2 (one in just one of the panels) for the smoke alarms;
1 for 'laundry' (not that there's any space -or plumbing- for such, and no mention of a dryer); and,
1 for remaining outlets.
I don't think I'm required to separate the sleeping area receptacle from the other receptacles, the outside receptacles from the other circuits, or the lights from the receptacles.
Have I missed anything? Misunderstood something?
Less than 3 ft. of counter space - and I need TWO 20-a circuits? A "laundry" circuit where there's no plumbing? Does the furnace igniter really need a dedicated circuit?
My load clacs -even with the A/C load- come in at well under 60 amps. Yet I'm required to give each 'half' 100 amps .... and it looks like the smallest panel with this quantity of spaces is rated 125 amps.
Have we over-engineered things?
