We currently have locations where there are 4 wall-mounted water fountains. We would like to change them out to 3 commercial water coolers. Since there's nothing in the NEC about them specifically, here's my question: Do I need to have each cooler on their own specific circuit (each is rated at 325-370 watts each), or can I put all 3 on a single 20 amp circuit? Thanks!
Number of circuits for new water coolers
- Thread starter jerryw
- Start date
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- Location
- Lockport, IL
- Occupation
- Semi-Retired Electrical Engineer
The only related rule is that you must limit the load to be within the capabilities of the branch circuit. Three loads of 370 watts each gives you a total load of 1,110 watts. That is well within the limits of a 20 amp circuit.
- Location
- New Jersey
- Occupation
- Journeyman Electrician
If these units aren't fastened in place then you could load the 20 amp circuit up to 2400 watts.
Jim W in Tampa
Senior Member
- Location
- Tampa Florida
They most likely are fastened,but often a hi/low share one compresor.Rather dought they cant share a circuit unles this is for teen boys that just ran a mile .
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