Whether you need a dedicated circuit for any appliance depends on its initial and stable current draw and power requirement.
It probably doesn’t need a dedicated circuit if it’s a simple gas range, with at most an igniter as its only electrical element. If, however, it has one or more high-end electrical features or components, it might do. To be sure, you must check its current draw and power requirement.
I’ll tell you what components to look out for, what amperage you can expect if it does have high-end electrical components, and about combined units.
Dedicated Circuits
A dedicated circuit is designed to serve only a single appliance, typically a high-powered or heavy-duty one that draws a very high current or has a very high power requirement.
The NEC code also requires it for certain critical and fixed appliances.
Technically, it is a separate or “individual branch circuit” and is arranged to reduce the risk of overloading a circuit, tripping a breaker, and other safety reasons. Manufacturers normally state whether you require a dedicated circuit for a particular appliance.
A dedicated circuit must not be shared by any other appliance, even a light bulb or other very low-power appliance.
Gas Ranges
A modern gas range normally does need a dedicated circuit.
However, you should check its type, power rating, and the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Type of Gas Range
A traditional or old gas range that only burns gas and has no or hardly any electrical elements probably doesn’t need a dedicated circuit.
A simple element would be a pilot light to ignite the gas. It doesn’t need high voltage, either.
However, if your gas range has one or more of the following features or additional components, it probably does need a dedicated circuit, even if it’s a gas range:
- Additional lighting
- Convection oven
- High-cap igniter
- Inbuilt extractor
Such features and components require more current and power than a simple gas range.
Amperage and Power Requirement
A modern gas range with one or more of the above features or components typically requires between a 30- and 60-amp circuit and might operate on 220-240 volts (rather than 120 volts).
It’s a high requirement because such ranges draw a lot of currents. But it’s more likely to be an electric range than a gas one.
If your gas range requires high power, like a typical electric range, put it on a dedicated circuit.
Combined Range and Oven
A combined range and oven unit are designed to operate on the same circuit.
It will most probably require a dedicated circuit.
However, the type of circuit and circuit breaker required will depend on the total amperage or wattage of the combined unit.
FAQs
My simple gas range has a low power requirement. Should I still have it on a dedicated circuit? What other benefits are there?
Even if you have a simple gas range with a low power requirement, putting it on a dedicated circuit can be advantageous.
For example, appliances on dedicated circuits are not connected to other appliances. If any appliance causes the circuit breaker to trip on a shared circuit will trip for the entire circuit. All the appliances on that circuit will be turned off, causing a disruption.
It is also advisable to have a dedicated circuit if operating the gas range is critical, such as for business use.
