What should be the amperage capacity of the breaker for a refrigerated fixture with a 208 V power supply and specific load ratings?

The correct assessment of the amperage capacity for a breaker serving a refrigerated fixture with a 208 V power supply depends on the load ratings and the guidelines established by the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Breakers are designed not only to protect the circuits from overload but also to handle start-up surges typical in refrigeration systems. When selecting a breaker, it is essential to consider the full-load current of the refrigerated fixture, potentially factoring in the additional current that may be required during start-up (which is usually higher than the running load).

Typically, the full-load current for a refrigerated appliance can be calculated using the electrical formula: Current (Amps) = Power (Watts) / Voltage (Volts). Once the full-load amperage is determined, it is common practice to choose a breaker that can accommodate additional current for inrush at start-up, often selecting a breaker rated no less than 125% of the full-load current, as prescribed by the NEC.

For standard refrigeration loads, a 20 A breaker is commonly adequate for many residential applications where the full load amperage falls within a range that suits this breaker size. It provides enough capacity for normal operation without frequent tripping while still ensuring safety in the electrical system. A