Basement wet bar: wiring and circuit questions

millinghill · 2015-10-05T05:33:33+00:00

Hi, I'm planning a wet bar in finishing my basement. It will have a counter with a sink. No provision for a stove, nor automatic dishwasher. It will need a greywater pump under the sink because I'm below the main drain. Not clear on what NEC directs for circuits and wiring. I believe this qualifies as a "similar area" to a kitchen (as specified in the NEC), so I know GFCI's required every 2ft. on the counter. 1. Will one 20amp circuit for these countertop outlets suffice? or do I need more? 2. Does it depend on the length of the countertop? 3. Do I need a dedicated circuit just for that pump under the sink? (the models I see at HomeDepot draw 8amps, if that makes any difference). 4. Anything else I should watch out for? Thanks for your input. Theodore.

Oct 05, 2015 25 Replies

Rate this thread:

micky 10 years ago

So you're into doing the least also. You just calculate the least with more foresight!! ;-)

See above.

Vote

trader_4 10 years ago

You have a code cite for that? AFAIK, there is no such exception for a sump pump in a basement. EVERY receptacle has to be on a GFCI. Are you just making stuff up again?

Vote

clare 10 years ago

The "sump" is below the drain level, and can overflow before the sink backs up - at least on many laundry pumps I've seen. They have a small "tank" that fills to a particular level before the ejector pump starts. If the pump doesn't start the tank fills to the top - and SOME will leak when this happens - making a mess.

Vote

gfretwell 10 years ago

That is why I suggested putting it on the circuit with the light.

Vote

micky 10 years ago

Still, he will likely notice that it's not making any noise, and he'll be there to see the water on the floor before it floods the whole basement. Before he leaves he'll turn off the water and only a little more will come out.

That too.

Vote