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Posted By: jes Overload? - 09/06/05 11:00 PM
15 Amp, 125 volt branch circuit with duplex 15 Amp, 125 volt receptacles. Plugged into a single duplex are two 6.5 Amp (nameplate) commercial referigerators, one into each position. For the sake of discussion there are no other loads. Does this violate ANY ratings or NEC requirements?
Posted By: luckyshadow Re: Overload? - 09/06/05 11:14 PM
I would say no.
I believe a refrigerator is not a continuous load ( on for 3 or more hours). The compressor will cycle on and off but should not run continuous.
Posted By: Redsy Re: Overload? - 09/07/05 12:27 AM
210.21(B)(2)
If the "duplex" receptacle is considered 2 receptacles, (and I believe it is) you would have a violation.
Posted By: Roger Re: Overload? - 09/07/05 12:42 AM
Redsy, since this is in fact two receptacles, neither one would be loaded to the maximum limit of Table 210.21(B)(2) for a 15 amp receptacle.

Roger
Posted By: Redsy Re: Overload? - 09/07/05 01:24 AM
OK, so it's per each receptacle?
Posted By: George Little Re: Overload? - 09/07/05 02:40 AM
No overload, no violation but poor design. Just a matter of time before both units start at the same time and that could spell problem.
Posted By: jes Re: Overload? - 09/08/05 09:27 AM
And no argument...

To change the question slightly...
Suppose the duplex were split and each receptacle had it's own 15 Amp circuit.
A load of 12 Amps could be connected to each, giving a total current of 24 amps through a standard, everyday, less than $1, duplex receptacle, correct?
Posted By: iwire Re: Overload? - 09/08/05 10:50 AM
Yes that is correct.

Now how long would that cheap receptacle would last is another question altogether.
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