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EC&M Tech Talk — Tips for Installation of Air Conditioning and Refrigerating Equipment

Nov. 1, 2024

Randy Barnett reviews the NEC rules for air conditioning and refrigeration equipment.

In this EC&M Tech Talk, Randy Barnett reviews the NEC rules for air conditioning and refrigeration equipment found in Art. 440. Fortunately, in the typical installation, the rules become simple to follow. Details are found in the article, but the nameplate on the equipment that houses the hermetic refrigeration compressor answers the basic questions about sizing conductors and overcurrent protection. The video explains how a 35A circuit breaker can protect 12 AWG conductors by explaining the difference between short circuit and ground fault protection, and overload protection.

If your interest is learning air conditioning installation, it is recommended to open your code book to Art. 440 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Equipment, highlight, and take notes. Pay special attention to the nameplate information as it will most often simplify the rules.

About the Author

Randy Barnett | CESCP

Randy Barnett is an NFPA Certified Electrical Safety Professional, a long-time journeyman electrician, instructor and author with expertise in industrial electrical construction and maintenance. He is Electrical Codes & Safety Manager for NTT Training. Because of his ability to develop and deliver quality programs, Randy has trained more than 10,000 students in all 50 states, including Canada, Singapore, Afghanistan, Dubai, Trinidad, and Saudi Arabi. His articles appear in numerous trade publications and, his book on "Commercial and Industrial Wiring" is used as an entry-level text in many electrician training programs. Randy also appears at various corporate and trade association speaking engagements and consults on training program design and implementation. Randy is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Nuclear Power School, served as a nuclear electrician in submarines and holds a B.S. in business.