How to wire an oven and cooktop? I am remodeling my kitchen and installing a separate wall oven and cooktop..?

Question

The kitchen currently has one 220 circuit for the old stove and I will need another line for the cooktop. The problem is that my breaker box is full. I see several options.

1) Use enough double breakers to free up a slot in the main box, and then run a line to the cooktop.

2) Using the existing 220 line, install a second breaker box and split the circuit there (i.e 2 seperate breakers in the new box). This may require a wiring upgrade for the existing circuit (although the old stove had the oven and range operating on the same circuit).

3) Convert to 200 amp service and have plenty of space for the new circuit.

Which option is best, or does anyone have a better idea?

Answer 1

Option 3 is by far the best option.  200 amps is a minimum in new construction, due to the demands that we place on our houses.  It will cost you a bit right now.  However It will give you some breathing room for the future, and will add value to your house at resale time.  Good luck.