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Posted By: sparkync Common neutral question - 04/12/10 01:02 PM
I have a piece of commercial kitchen equipment that requires 2 120 volt circuits. Each pulls 1750 watts. Is there anything wrong with pulling 12/3 mc cable with a common neutral to this equipment, provided I put a double pole breaker on the circuit? Thanks...
Posted By: Rewire Re: Common neutral question - 04/12/10 02:07 PM
How is the connection made to the equipment?Unless the manufacturer says don't I see no NEC issue with the what you want to do.
Posted By: sparkync Re: Common neutral question - 04/12/10 03:35 PM
The equipment plugs directly into a regular 120 volt outlet. They will both probably be used at the same time.
Thanks..
Posted By: EV607797 Re: Common neutral question - 04/12/10 03:51 PM
I see no problem at all. Even if only one of the items is used, the neutral will carry 100% of the load. If both are used, then the current will be equally divided among the hot legs with the neutral carrying any imbalance.
Posted By: SJT Re: Common neutral question - 04/15/10 03:23 AM
I am not a big fan of common neutrals. If one circuit is overloaded for whatever reason, it also takes out the other circuit, being it's on a 2 pole breaker. I would stay with a neutral for each circuit, especially kitchen equipment.
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