Kitchen lighting, outlets, and circuits installed in Matthews, NC
Touchstone Electric’s Charlotte branch completed a comprehensive kitchen electrical upgrade for homeowner Jane Carft in Matthews, NC. Led by technician Theo Coetsee, this project modernized task lighting, added safe and convenient countertop power, and provided dedicated circuits to support new appliances and island utilities—all with careful attention to current electrical codes.
Location: Matthews, NC | Branch: Charlotte | Technician: Theo Coetsee | Completed: January 7, 2026
Project scope and highlights
- Dedicated oven power: Installed and supplied a 30-amp circuit for the double oven.
- Under-cabinet lighting: Installed and supplied new under-cabinet lights in the kitchen (not at the coffee bar) for bright, even task lighting.
- Smart switching: Ran a new switch leg so all under-cabinet lights operate together; upgraded from a 3-gang to a 4-gang switch box and removed an old light and box (painter to patch drywall).
- Code-compliant outlet molding: Installed outlet molding along the backsplash to meet current code and maintain a clean look.
- Island pendant lighting: Added three new pendant light points over the island using the existing switch leg; used pancake boxes to achieve proper spacing and clearance.
- Pop-up island outlet: Installed a customer/contractor-supplied pop-up receptacle on the island for convenient, hidden power.
- Coffee bar power: Installed and supplied two cabinet outlets on a new 20-amp dedicated small-appliance circuit.
- Island utilities: Installed 1-inch conduit to serve island needs (outlet, dishwasher, disposal) with a junction box under the new oven location in the cabinet.
- Appliance and device hookups: Installed a new dishwasher switch and completed dishwasher hookup; installed and wired the garbage disposal with a customer-supplied air switch.
- Customer fixtures: Installed customer-supplied pendant fixtures over the island.
Code-focused craftsmanship
Kitchen circuits face heavy, frequent use. Our team ensured dedicated 20-amp small-appliance circuits where required, GFCI protection in appropriate locations, and correct box sizing and conductor terminations. To keep the island layout efficient and clean, we used pancake boxes for shallow mounting and routed conduit neatly to service multiple loads.
For any underground or under-slab routing associated with kitchen islands, we plan pathways to maintain safe separation from other utilities. In line with NEC 300.5(I), electrical runs are kept clear of water and gas lines, typically maintaining 12 inches of separation unless suitable raceways or barriers are in place. When both systems are in approved conduit, clearances can be reduced if separated by solid materials such as concrete, earth, or treated wood.
Key materials and components used
- NM-B Romex 6/3 for higher-capacity 240V appliance feeder as specified.
- NM-B Romex 12/2 and 14/2 for 20-amp and 15-amp branch circuits serving lighting and receptacles.
- THHN #12 conductors where individual conductors in raceway were needed.
- Under-cabinet light strips with a dedicated transformer for optimal performance and longevity.
- Standard and GFCI receptacles for countertop and cabinet locations.
- New switches, including a dedicated dishwasher switch, for intuitive control.
- Appropriate overcurrent protection, including 20-amp and 50-amp breakers as specified for the application.
- Pancake ceiling boxes for low-profile pendant mounting and proper spacing.
Results homeowners can see and feel
The finished kitchen in Matthews now features bright, shadow-free task lighting, stylish island pendants, and safe, convenient power at the island and coffee bar. Dedicated circuits deliver reliable performance for modern appliances, while discreet outlet molding preserves the clean backsplash design.
After the project, our customer, Jane Carft, praised our team in a post-service review for the professional installation and smooth coordination. We appreciate the feedback and are proud to serve neighbors across Matthews with dependable, on-time electrical work.
Serving Matthews, NC with expert lighting installation
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel or lighting upgrade in Matthews, Touchstone Electric’s Charlotte branch can design and install circuits, outlets, and fixtures that meet today’s electrical code and your family’s everyday needs. From under-cabinet lighting and island pendants to pop-up outlets and appliance hookups, we deliver safe, clean, and long-lasting results.
