60 amp breaker on 6-2 Romex

[Stevenfyeager]

Hvac asked me for a 60 amp circuit. I ran a 6-2 Cu romex on a 60 amp breaker out of habit. But if I’m not mistaken, 6-2 is rated for only 55 amps. I was thinking it’s because we are allowed to go one breaker size up. But I see they make a 55 breaker on line. My employee is asking me. Thanks!

 

[augie47]

I don't see where the more commonplace manufacturers offer a 55 amp breaker.
Since it is not a recognized "standard" size by 240.6 I can't see where there would be much demand for a 55 amp due to the reasons you note in your post.

 

[retirede]

HVAC has some special rules. Do you know what the circuit supplies or MCA/MOCP?

 

[infinity]

55 amps is not a standard size so the next size up rule would be a 60 amp OCPD if that rule applies.

 

[Stevenfyeager]

Thanks, I was always thinking that the next size up rule applied but then I googled “55 amp breaker “ and saw that it was available. But it’s not a “standard size”. I see that, thank you

 

[James L]

In my dealings with HVAC installers, they always ask for a circuit the size of the max fuse or breaker

 

[LarryFine]

In my dealings with HVAC installers, they always ask for a circuit the size of the max fuse or breaker

As long as you're getting paid for it, why not?

 

[acrwc10]

"Wire to the minimum, fuse to the maximum". The breaker is protection for a fault and the overloads in the HVAC are protection for overcurrent.