You discover that a subcontractor has installed a 15-amp GFCI outlet on a 20-amp kitchen counter circuit. What action should be taken according to Michigan electrical requirements?
Correct Answer
C) Replace with a 20-amp GFCI outlet to match circuit rating
Michigan follows NEC requirements that receptacles must be rated for the circuit amperage. A 20-amp circuit requires 20-amp rated receptacles, especially in kitchen counter areas.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Michigan follows the NEC, which requires receptacles to be rated for the ampacity of the circuit they serve. A 20-amp circuit must have 20-amp rated receptacles (identified by a T-slot configuration). The GFCI protection feature does not override the ampacity matching requirement. Replacing the 15-amp GFCI with a 20-amp GFCI outlet brings the installation into compliance.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Leave as-is since GFCI protection is the priority
Leaving the installation as-is is incorrect because GFCI protection is a safety feature related to ground fault interruption, not circuit ampacity. A 15-amp receptacle on a 20-amp circuit is a code violation regardless of GFCI protection — the receptacle is undersized for the circuit and could overheat under heavy loads.
Option B: Downgrade the circuit breaker to 15 amps
Downgrading the circuit breaker to 15 amps would underprotect the wiring, which is rated for 20 amps. Kitchen counter circuits are required by NEC to be 20-amp small appliance circuits; reducing the breaker would violate both the appliance circuit requirement and the conductor protection principle.
Option D: Install a reducer fitting at the panel
Installing a reducer fitting at the panel is not a code-compliant or recognized electrical solution. There is no such device that legitimately reduces circuit ampacity at the panel to match a lower-rated receptacle. This option reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of electrical systems.
Memory Technique
Match the rating: '20-amp circuit = 20-amp outlet.' Kitchen counter circuits are always 20-amp small appliance circuits per NEC. Remember the T-slot shape on 20-amp receptacles — the T stands for 'Twenty.'
More Michigan Questions
A residential foundation wall in Michigan is 8 feet high with 2 feet above grade. The backfill exerts lateral pressure of 30 psf per foot of depth. What is the maximum lateral pressure at the bottom of the foundation wall?
A builder discovers that the electrical service entrance was installed without proper permits. According to Michigan law, what is the most appropriate next step?
What is the maximum allowable span for a 2x8 floor joist (Grade 2 Douglas Fir) at 16" O.C. with 40 psf live load and 10 psf dead load according to Michigan Building Code span tables?
According to Michigan Building Code, what is the maximum height of a wood-framed bearing wall using 2x4 studs with standard construction?
A homeowner requests to convert a bedroom into a bathroom on the second floor. What is the primary Michigan code concern the builder must address?
According to Michigan plumbing regulations, what is the minimum pipe size required for a water service line serving a single-family residence?
A contractor is building a basement foundation wall that is 8 feet high and will retain 6 feet of soil. What is the minimum wall thickness required by the Michigan Building Code for poured concrete?
A homeowner wants to install a gas fireplace in their living room. The contractor notices the existing gas line is 1/2 inch black iron pipe. For a 40,000 BTU fireplace with a 25-foot run, is this pipe size adequate according to Michigan gas code?
During a framing inspection, the building official notes that the contractor used 2x4 studs at 24 inches on center for an exterior wall. According to Michigan Building Code, what is the maximum wall height allowed for this configuration?
A contractor is installing a beam to support floor joists. The beam must carry a total load of 8,000 pounds over a 12-foot span. If the allowable fiber stress for the lumber grade is 1,200 psi, what is the minimum required section modulus?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Contract Administration
60 questions · 70% to pass
Project Management
60 questions · 70% to pass
Related Study Resources
Previous Question
A residential builder is constructing a 28-foot wide house with 2x10 floor joists spaced 16 inches on center. According to Michigan Building Code span tables, what is the maximum allowable span for Southern Pine #2 grade lumber?
Next Question
A homeowner wants to finish their basement and install egress windows. According to Michigan Building Code, what is the minimum net clear opening area required for an egress window?