Quick Hits

⚡ Quick Hit: Non-Dwelling Receptacles Get a Bulk Discount

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

Episode 15

🔌 THE QUICK HIT

Remember the receptacle outlet loads from 120.14?

For non-dwelling buildings, certain receptacle loads can be subjected to additional demand factors.

And once the calculated load passes 10 kVA, the portion above that threshold gets a 50% demand factor when Table 120.47 is used.

📖 120.47 — Receptacle Load Demand Factors

Receptacle loads calculated under:

• 120.14(H) — Fixed multioutlet assemblies

• 120.14(I) — Standard receptacle outlets

may be subjected to demand factors using either:

Table 120.45

OR

Table 120.47

📊 TABLE 120.47

Calculated Receptacle Load

Demand Factor

First 10 kVA or less

100%

Portion over 10 kVA

50%

💡 THE BIG IDEA

The first 10 kVA doesn't get discounted.

Only the portion above 10 kVA receives the 50% demand factor.

Think:

First 10 kVA → 100%

Everything above 10 kVA → 50%

🎯 TEST YOURSELF

A non-dwelling building has a calculated receptacle load of:

15 kVA

The load was calculated under 120.14(I).

Using Table 120.47, what is the demand load for the portion over 10 kVA?

A) 5,000 VA

B) 2,500 VA

C) 7,500 VA

D) 15,000 VA

👇 What's your answer?

🧮 SHOW YOUR MATH

Total receptacle load:

15,000 VA

First 10,000 VA:

10,000 VA × 100% = 10,000 VA

Remaining load:

15,000 − 10,000 = 5,000 VA

Apply the 50% demand factor:

5,000 VA × 50% = 2,500 VA

⚡ Demand load for the portion over 10 kVA:

2,500 VA

✅ ANSWER

B) 2,500 VA

Only the 5,000 VA above the 10 kVA threshold receives the 50% demand factor.

🔑 REMEMBER

10 kVA = the line

Above 10 kVA = 50%

Don't apply 50% to the entire receptacle load.

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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.

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