Which type of kitchen lighting is not permitted to be supplied by the two required 20-ampere small-appliance circuits?

In residential wiring, the National Electrical Code (NEC) outlines specific requirements for kitchen circuits, particularly in the context of small-appliance circuits. The two required 20-ampere small-appliance circuits are intended primarily for supplying receptacles that serve kitchen countertop areas, where appliances such as toasters, coffee makers, and blenders are often used.

Ambient lighting, which refers to the overall illumination of a space, typically includes light fixtures that are not connected directly to the receptacle outlets dedicated for small appliances. The NEC specifically delineates that small-appliance circuits are designed for receptacles and do not cover general lighting circuits. This means that while task, accent, and recessed lighting can often be accommodated through different wiring configurations or circuits, ambient lighting should be on a separate circuit to meet safety guidelines and code requirements.

By ensuring that ambient lighting is not supplied by the small-appliance circuits, the NEC helps prevent overloads and ensures that circuits designated for high-demand appliances remain functional and safe without competition from other lighting loads.