What type of outlets may not be included on small appliance circuits?

Small appliance circuits are specifically designed to supply power to receptacles for portable appliances in kitchens, dining areas, and similar spaces. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies guidelines for what types of outlets can be connected to these circuits.

Lighting outlets, which are primarily intended for fixed lighting fixtures, are generally not considered small appliance outlets because their purpose and usage differ significantly. They are part of a separate subsystem within an electrical installation that handles lighting needs. This distinction is critical for ensuring that the circuit load is managed effectively and safely, as lighting and receptacle loads typically require different circuit capacities and configurations.

In contrast, receptacle outlets are included within small appliance circuits since they serve the intended purpose of the circuit. Outdoor outlets and ground fault outlets can also serve specific functions and are installed with safety and functionality in mind, but they do not specifically cater to the small appliance circuit requirement like lighting outlets do. Thus, recognizing lighting outlets as separate from small appliance circuits helps maintain electrical safety and code compliance in residential wiring.