What is the demand load for four pieces of commercial cooking equipment according to the NEC®?

The demand load for commercial cooking equipment as specified by the National Electrical Code (NEC®) is calculated based on the rated load of the equipment. For four pieces of cooking equipment, the NEC® allows for a demand factor to be applied, recognizing that not all equipment will operate at full load simultaneously.

Applying this understanding, when the combined total demand for the cooking equipment is determined, a demand factor of 80% is used. This means that the total power requirement for the four pieces of equipment can be calculated by taking 80% of their total rated load.

This standard practice is in place to ensure that the electrical system can handle the load without being oversized, promoting efficiency and safety in commercial kitchen operations. It reflects realistic usage patterns, as not all cooking appliances are typically in use at the same time to their maximum capacity. Thus, choosing the 80% demand factor aligns with NEC® guidelines and ensures effective load management in electrical planning for commercial cooking facilities.