For small-appliance load calculations, which statement is correct?

For small-appliance load calculations, which statement is correct?

• A. Only small-appliance circuits are counted
• B. Small-appliance and laundry circuits are both counted
• C. Only laundry circuits count
• D. Neither count

Answer: (B)

In dwelling-unit load calculations, you include all non-lighting receptacle loads that can run simultaneously, so you add both small-appliance circuits and laundry circuits. The small-appliance circuits (the two or more 20-amp circuits serving general receptacles in living areas) are counted because they handle typical kitchen, living, and family-room loads. Laundry circuits are counted too because laundry equipment can draw significant power and may operate at the same time as other receptacle loads. Together, these two types of circuits represent the practical, non-lighting demand you must size for, so including both gives a more accurate service calculation. If you counted only one type, you’d underrepresent the total demand.

In dwelling-unit load calculations, you include all non-lighting receptacle loads that can run simultaneously, so you add both small-appliance circuits and laundry circuits. The small-appliance circuits (the two or more 20-amp circuits serving general receptacles in living areas) are counted because they handle typical kitchen, living, and family-room loads. Laundry circuits are counted too because laundry equipment can draw significant power and may operate at the same time as other receptacle loads. Together, these two types of circuits represent the practical, non-lighting demand you must size for, so including both gives a more accurate service calculation. If you counted only one type, you’d underrepresent the total demand.