ECN Forum Forums Photo Discussion Forums Photos for General Discussion Single Outlet Circuit?

Mine's plugged into the same circuit as the bathroom. I've advised my wife not to run them (hair dryer & AC) both at once. This is reality, the cobbler's children have no shoes....S

With only a 4.8 amp load, i do not see a problem eve with a 15 amp circuit. The only thing is the data plate calling for a single outlet. Mfg instructions?

CYA due to the possibility of damage to the unit (compressor / condensor) if run under-voltage, with subsequent service calls or liability expenses?

Where was it manufactured?

While most of us (given a choice) would use higher quality equipment that could handle a 10% variance, maybe they (in the interest of saving some $ no doubt) are using components with a "fudge factor" of only 5%?

The sticker probably gives them an "out" if they're called to replace a component damaged as above. If it's in a "regular" outlet or circuit, the field serviceman can tell the owner it "wasn't installed per directions" and isn't covered under warranty service. ;(

(of course, for an additional $199, we'd be happy to repair / replace the unit... )

Could it possibly have something to do with inrush current? Maybe Sears doesnt want the liability of someone plugging this thing into a power strip with their new computer/plasma TV/monitor.. & the A/C browning those things out.... On the end of a 14awg 15A circuit, you'd probably seem the light dim everytime this thing kicks on...

-Randy

I have an 8000btu AC in my room, with 2 computers and a stereo and tv in my entertainment center. I only tripped a breaker once. I just had to have another computer on. will not do that again

Manufacturer's instructions?---Yes, probably.

Listing requirement?---Probably not.

I don't think it would be a violation of 110.3(B) to put this on an other than individual branch circuit, but there could be a warranty issue.

BTW: Does this equipment comply with 440.65 for the new LCDI/AFCI requirement?

My all of 480W bedroom AC is connected to only one single circuit, the one for the bedroom.


It would be silly to connect it to 2 circuits or more... ...S

Can't put my finger on the code section, but I think this has more to do with the fact that even a window AC unit, once installed, is not really a portable cord & plug connected load in the same sense as a lamp, radio, etc. A technical stretch maybe, but it is not terribly unlike a dishwasher that is shoved into a cabinet abd plugged in (except the obvious fact there is no water connection).

I agree that it's unrealistic for the manufacturer to presume someone is going to install a new receptacle and circuit for a 4.8 amp unit. But that's probably where the requirement comes from. If I can find the NEC article, I'll post it later.

Radar

I once had the Personell director of a company composed of engineers say "what good is an English major?"

I think that the lable is using poor English. I believe that what they meant was "install on a dedicated circuit."
While this may not be a specific code requirement, the other requirements for overcurrent, wire sizing, disconnecting means, etc., are a lot easier to meet if you have a dedicated circuit!

One exception, that I am willing to entertain, is having associated equipment (filters, humidifiers, etc.) and the furnace blower on the same circuit. These are arguably part of the same system...