How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island

Note: In this case, the original electrician ran a wire from an electrical box to the island and terminated both ends in electrical boxes. If that’s not the case, it may be necessary to run new wires through the floor to the new island.

Resources

Heath installs a receptacle to a kitchen island without an existing receptacle. He explains at least one receptacle is necessary for any island or peninsular countertop to be to code. After turning off the power by flipping the switch on the main breaker, Heath uses a Non-contact voltage tester pen to ensure the wires aren’t live. He suggests using painter’s tape and the electrical box to create a guide to cut into the cabinetry with an oscillating multitool. Next, he uses a level to check that the electrical box is perfectly vertical. Heath uses a hand drill to screw the electrical box into place before removing the knockouts. Once the knockouts have been removed, he runs wires through the box and connects the corresponding wires leading from the outlet. Restore power after replacing the receptacle cover.

National Electrical Code 210.52(C)(2) Island and Peninsular Countertops and Work Surfaces

One receptacle is needed for first 9 square feet Another receptacle needed for the next 18 square feet A third receptacle needed for the remaining 18 square feet

Materials

Painter’s tape Metal electrical box Metal-clad wire (BX) Cable connectors Cable bushings Wire nuts Outlet Outlet cover

Tools

How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 21How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 51How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 95How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 16How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 22How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 44How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 75How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 84How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 62How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 17How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 25How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 57How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 6How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island - 20