Why Do Electric Induction Cooktops Require A Dedicated Circuit

Updated 05/09/2024 | Published 05/07/2024

Question:

Induction cooktops generally state that the appliance should be plugged in to a dedicated circuit. Is this not a requirement for an RV induction cooktop? If you use an existing GFI outlet in your RV to get power to the induction cooktop, do you need to plan on not plugging any other appliance into other GFI outlets in the RV while using the induction cooktop? We only have 4 outlets in our RV and they are all on the same circuit breaker. If a dedicated circuit is needed, we don’t have any spare positions in our breaker box.

asked by: Mike O

Expert Reply:

Hey Mike,

The Greystone Electric RV Induction Cooktop # 324-000127 can pull up to 20 amps which is why it's recommended for it to be plugged into a dedicated circuit. Typically anything that generates heat will have a big power draw on your electrical system. Does your AC distribution panel use single circuit breakers? If so, you can swap out a single circuit breaker for a tandem breaker to gain an extra circuit for the induction cooktop.

expert reply by: Kevin C