Receptacle Disconnect 5-20P

[mrT15]

Hi all,

I have a simple question as my first of many posts here on this forum. I am designing a small coffee vendor area for a university. It will have a vertical display case that draws 16.5A. The product uses a NEMA 5-20P. Does this mean that the receptacle should be 5-20R?

Table 210.21(B)(2) in the 2014 NEC states that the max load for a 20A receptacle is 16A. I think that I should size the receptacle and breaker larger to follow NEC, but I would like some other input. Information about the display case is here: http://www.turboairinc.com/index.php/tom-48-dx.html

Thank you!

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Technically a 16.5 amps of lighting would not be compliant on a 20 amp circuit because the load would be considered continuous. Continuous loads are to be calculated at 125%. A 20 amp circuit is only allowed to have 16 amps when the load is continuous.

 

[petersonra]

Technically a 16.5 amps of lighting would not be compliant on a 20 amp circuit because the load would be considered continuous. Continuous loads are to be calculated at 125%. A 20 amp circuit is only allowed to have 16 amps when the load is continuous.

this display case appears to be more of a refrigerator than anything else. i don't see how it is a continuous load.

 

[jumper]

Personally, I would not rely on that cut sheet. Where it states FLA as 16.5 could very well be the MCA for the unit. I would want to see a real breakdown of the data like a nameplate or such.

 

[qcroanoke]

The user manual clearly states at the bottom of page 3:
WARNING!
Display Case should be on a minimum 20 Amps dedicated outlet and
minimum 12 AWG wire for proper operation.


It also comes with a 20 amp prewired plug.
I would wire to the plug provided, removing it and replacing with a larger plug will only get you blamed if something goes wrong.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

this display case appears to be more of a refrigerator than anything else. i don't see how it is a continuous load.

I saw display case and I was thinking lights... sorry

 

[iwire]

It also comes with a 20 amp prewired plug.
I would wire to the plug provided,

I agree 100%

 

[mrT15]

Thank you all very much! I will go forward with the 5-20R receptacle. Good to have some expert advice from you all!