Question

if a refrigerator is connected to a branch circuit rated at 20 a and that branch circuit supplies additional devices, what's the maximum current the refrigerator can require in this circuit?

Answer 1

The maximum current for a refrigerator on a 20-amp branch circuit with other devices is 16 amps, adhering to the 80% safety rule for continuous power usage.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a refrigerator is connected to a branch circuit rated at 20 amps and that branch circuit supplies additional devices, the maximum current the refrigerator can require in this circuit is limited by safety regulations. To prevent potential harm and ensure the longevity of appliances, the continuous use of a circuit should not exceed 80% of the breaker's current capacity. Therefore, the maximum current a refrigerator should draw from a 20-amp circuit, which also supplies other devices, is 16 amps (80% of 20 amps).