I see that the latest NEC revisions prescribe that AFCI breakers are to
be used not merely for bedroom circuits but for just about every living
space -- OK, I guess.

But I see that it is now a violation to have a duplex outlet on a
GFCI-protected circuit for a single prescribed appliance, e.g.,
refrigerator, sump pump; why on earth...? (Someone suggested --
humorously, I guess -- that it was to sell more outlets and to make more
[paid] work for electricians, who would then have to install additional
circuits and outlets.)

Perce

*As far as I know it is not a code violation to have a dedicated GFI circuit for an appliance. Doesn't matter if the outlet is single or duplex. If it is a 20 amp circuit and there will only be one single receptacle, then that single receptacle must be rated for 20 amps. Do you have a code reference article number for what you read?

There are no longer any exceptions for GFI protection. I responded in another newsgroup about the ceiling outlet in a garage that normally powers the garage door opener. That is required to have GFI protection as well as the other outlets in the garage. If the refrigerator is within six feet of the kitchen sink it must have GFI protection. Any outlets in the unfinished part of a basement must have GFI protection.

John Grabowski
http://www.MrElectrician.TV