(A) Definition. For the purposes of this section, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
BRANCH CIRCUIT. The circuit conductors between the final overcurrent device protecting the circuit and the outlets.
(B) Types of circuits.
APPLIANCE BRANCH CIRCUIT. A circuit that supplies energy to one or more outlets to which kitchen appliances are connected: no lighting fixtures are permitted on this circuit.
GENERAL-PURPOSE BRANCH CIRCUIT. A circuit that supplies a number of outlets for lighting and small appliances.
INDIVIDUAL BRANCH CIRCUIT. A circuit that supplies power to only one utilization equipment, such as a kitchen electric range.
(C) Types of service panels. There are many types of service distribution panels used in residential wiring. However, there are only two types of overcurrent protection: the fuse and the circuit breaker. Circuit breakers must be clearly marked to show whether they are in the open (OFF) or closed (ON) position. Use a 15-ampere breaker for No. 14 AWG wire; a 20 ampere breaker for No. 12 wire; and a 30 ampere breaker for No. 10 wire. Circuit breakers are made in single-pole and double-pole with voltage and current ratings to match the circuit breaker. The distribution panel cabinet must bear the UL, or other approved, testing agencies, label and it must be marked as suitable for service equipment. The National Electric Code requires that only “type S fuses” be used, and are so designed that they cannot be used in any fuse box other than a type S fuse holder or a fuse holder with a type S adapter inserted.
(D) Circuit interrupters or circuit breakers. The ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) circuit breakers or a GFCI receptacle are required in the following areas:
(1) NEC 210-8, in residential occupancies, on all 120-volt single phase, 15-ampere, 20-ampere receptacle outlets outdoors, in garages and in bathrooms;
(2) NEC 210-8, on the construction site, (usually the temporary power pole). See NEC 210-80, and appropriate drawing incorporated by reference under § 152.05 of this chapter and on file with the Building Commissioner;
(3) NEC 680-6, swimming pools: lighting fixtures (wet-niche);
(4) NEC 680-20, underwater lighting fixtures (wet-niche);
(5) NEC 680-31, storable swimming pools;
(6) NEC 680-41(a), supplying fountain equipment;
(7) NEC 680-50, fountains: all power supply connected equipment;
(8) NEC 680-5, swimming pool transformers;
(9) NEC 555-3, marinas and boatyards;
(10) NEC 517-13, health care facilities;
(11) NEC 215-9, feeders; and
(12) NEC 680-22, bonding of all metallic parts.
(Prior Code, § 152.22)