A receptacle connected to one of the dwelling unit small appliance branch circuits can be used to supply an electric clock.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in kitchens
• D. Not specified

Answer: (A)

Small-appliance branch circuits are meant to supply receptacle outlets for portable, cord-and-plug–connected loads throughout the dwelling. A clock is a cord-and-plug–connected device, so plugging it into a receptacle on one of these circuits is allowed. The code doesn’t restrict these circuits to specific appliances; their purpose is to provide general receptacles for portable loads, not fixed lighting or hardwired equipment. The clock’s typical low draw fits comfortably on a 20-amp small-appliance circuit, and this can be in living areas covered by the small-appliance requirements, not only in kitchens.