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Old 07-06-2008, 02:41 PM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Featherburner View Post
Bill, you're right at the 80% rating of a 15 amp circuit. I'd step up to the 20A.

exactly right.

the issue is probably this; when the air turns on the compressor starts, its a motor load and when motors start they draw and VERY large amount of current during the initial start-up, then settle back to the running load. This is why the 15A breaker trips sometimes. The 20A breaker will cause no issues, just dont overload the 30 sub-panel.

And like featherburner said, a circuit it not supposed to draw more that 80% of its ampacity on a continuous load, like an air conditioner. It can actually degrade the breaker and other components due to excessive heat.
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Last edited by //<86TA>\\; 05-04-2011 at 06:51 PM.
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