Kitchen Electrical Upgrades in Wisconsin: Complete 2026 Guide
Kitchens have more electrical requirements than any other room. Modern codes demand dedicated circuits, GFCI protection, and proper outlet spacing. Here's what Wisconsin homeowners need to know.
Kitchen Electrical Costs
- • Additional outlet: $150-$300
- • Dedicated appliance circuit: $300-$600
- • GFCI upgrade: $150-$250/location
- • Under-cabinet lighting: $500-$1,500
- • Full remodel electrical: $2,500-$6,000+
Required Kitchen Circuits (NEC 2020)
- 2+ Small Appliance Circuits (20A): For countertop outlets—toasters, mixers, etc.
- Dishwasher (20A dedicated): GFCI protected per NEC 2020
- Garbage Disposal (15A or 20A): Usually switched under sink
- Refrigerator (15A or 20A dedicated): GFCI recommended, not required
- Range/Oven: 40A or 50A for electric; gas needs 15A for ignition
- Microwave: 20A dedicated if built-in/over-range
Outlet Spacing Requirements
NEC has specific rules for kitchen countertop outlets:
- • 4-foot rule: No point along counter wall should be more than 2 feet from an outlet (so outlets every 4 feet)
- • 2-foot rule: Any countertop wider than 12 inches needs an outlet within 2 feet
- • Island outlets: Required if island counter is 12"+ wide and 24"+ long
- • Peninsula outlets: Required if there's usable counter space
Common Kitchen Electrical Problems
- Tripping breakers: Too many appliances on one circuit
- Not enough outlets: Leads to dangerous extension cord use
- Missing GFCI: Required within 6 feet of sink since 1996
- Inadequate lighting: Task lighting improves safety
Why We Can't Quote Remotely
Kitchen electrical quotes require seeing:
- • Current circuit configuration and capacity
- • Panel space for new circuits
- • Wall construction and wire routing
- • Countertop layout for outlet planning
- • Appliance locations and power requirements
Related Resources
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From dedicated appliance circuits to under-cabinet lighting and GFCI upgrades, we handle every aspect of kitchen electrical work to meet current code. Couillard Electric serves Sheboygan County, Ozaukee County, Washington County, and surrounding SE Wisconsin communities.