Code interpretation 3

[stevemechanical]

Section 220.16(c) of the New York City Amendments to the 2002 NEC, states: "A load, if not less than 1500 Volt-Amperes, shall be included for the air conditioning outlet required by 210.52(I)."

Does this mean that a minimum of 1500 VA's has to be used in the load calcs. for each outlet, even though there are existing outlets, and we may know it to be much less?

The reason I'm asking, is that we're trying to verify whether an existing service feeder for an apartment is adequate.

 

[jghrist]

I'm not familiar with the NYC amendments, but I would guess that 210.52(I) requires an outlet somewhere for a window air conditioner and that 220.16(c) means that you have to include at least 1500 VA for this load in addition to the 1500 VA required in 220.16(A) for each small-appliance branch circuit. I would also guess that it only applies to the outlet(s) required for air conditioners, not to all outlets. The inclusion of the word "if" is confusing, however.

 

[rbulsara]

If the AC unit is less than 1500kVA it will be treated just like any other portable appliance like an iron, a computer or a lighting device. So no individual load for smaller AC units has to be taken in to account while sizing the "service". You need to include load as required for general-purpose outlets per Code.

However, a dedicated circuit should be considered although not required by code, because you won't be able to plug much else on the same circuit, if you have the AC unit is running.

 

[davidbeach]

rbulsara, I trust that 'k' was just a slip of the finger, I'd hate to see a 1500kVA anything labeled as portable.

 

[EEJaime]

That iron would assuredly get the wrinkles out in a hurry wouldn't it?

 

[rbulsara]

david:

Yes! Thanks. Well, there are portable 1500kva stuff (think generators and such) , but I would hate to see them in my house or apartment as much as any.

Cheers!

 

[davidbeach]

I think those generators are more in the classification of transportable than portable. But in either case, you're right; they'd be a bit big for a house or apartment.;-)

 

[waross]

Right on.
I've seen quite a few "PORTABLE" 1500 KVA generators.
They have 16 cylinders, and come in a 40' semi trailer with Caterpilar written on the side.
Not in my house either!