Quick Hits

⚡ Quick Hit: Motors & A/C — This Article Punts to Other Articles

Article 120 — Branch-Circuit, Feeder, and Service Load Calculations

Episode 14

🔀 THE QUICK HIT

Not every load gets its own calculation formula in Article 120.

For certain equipment, Article 120 points you to the specific NEC Article that governs that equipment.

Motors?

➡️ Article 430

Air-conditioning and refrigerating equipment?

➡️ Article 440

⚙️ 120.50(A) — Motor Loads

When dealing with motor loads, Article 120 directs you to Article 430 for the applicable requirements.

📖 Conductor Sizing

Motor feeder conductor requirements are addressed by:

430.24 and 430.25

📊 Feeder Demand Factor

The demand-factor method for motor loads is addressed by:

430.26

💡 THE TAKEAWAY

Article 120 isn't trying to reinvent the motor calculation.

120.50(A) → Article 430

When you're calculating motor loads, follow the NEC's cross-reference to the Article specifically dedicated to motors.

❄️ 120.50(B) — Air-Conditioning Equipment

For hermetic refrigerant motor-compressors and associated air-conditioning equipment, Article 120 points you toward:

Article 440, Part IV

That's where the applicable conductor and load requirements are addressed.

💡 THE TAKEAWAY

A/C equipment → Article 440

Don't assume the general Article 120 calculation rules automatically control specialized equipment.

🎯 TEST YOURSELF

Per 120.50(A), which Article governs the feeder demand-factor calculation method for motor loads?

A) Article 440

B) Article 210

C) Article 430

D) Article 120 directly — no redirect

👇 What's your answer?

✅ ANSWER

C) Article 430

Article 120 directs you to Article 430 for motor-load requirements, including the feeder demand-factor method addressed by 430.26.

🔑 REMEMBER

Motors → Article 430

A/C → Article 440

When Article 120 points you somewhere else, follow the cross-reference.

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⚠️ EDUCATIONAL NOTICE

This Quick Hit is an educational explanation based on the author's understanding of the NEC. It is not a substitute for the official NEC, applicable local amendments, manufacturer instructions, or the determination of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Always verify the requirements applicable to your specific installation.

The National Electrical Code® and NEC® are registered trademarks of NFPA. JoshTheSparky.com is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by NFPA.