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Monday, June 13, 2016

Question:

Is voltage drop calculation a requirement of NECA for wire installation or NEC requirement or both. I understand the ramifications of not doing this as it could cause a fire from everything I have read but is it a true requirement or just a recommendation by NECA or NEC.

Donald Barrien

A

Answer:

Hey Donald thanks for your question. Voltage Drop is a requirement for special situations such as for fire pump circuits as stated in 695.7. It can also be required if specific voltage levels are specified in the instructions for listed or labeled equipment based on 110.3(B). Sizing conductors to limit voltage drop to 5% will provide a reasonable efficiency of operation as stated in Informational Notes to 210.19(A) and 215.2(A)(1), but Informational Notes are not mandatory rules. NECA does not have any additional voltage drop recommendations but check your energy code, other local requirements, and with the manufacturer for their thoughts regarding the specific equipment.

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