What is the minimum calculated branch circuit load for 1-8 kW electric cooktop and 2-4 kW electric wall-mounted ovens installed in a dwelling unit?

To determine the minimum calculated branch circuit load for an electric cooktop and wall-mounted ovens in a dwelling unit, the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides specific guidelines regarding the demand calculations for these appliances.

For a cooktop rated between 1 to 8 kW, the maximum demand is typically taken at 8 kW. This means the full load of 8 kW is used in calculations. For electric ovens, especially in this range of 2 to 4 kW each, the NEC allows for reduced demand calculations. When installing two ovens, this generally means that the highest-rated oven (4 kW) plus a fraction of the load of the second oven needs to be considered.

When performing the calculations, you would add the 8 kW from the cooktop to the demand for the ovens. The demand for both ovens involves taking the maximum rated oven and adding a percentage of the lower-rated oven. Assuming a demand factor, you might arrive at a combined total that aligns with 9.6 kW, which accounts for efficient usage and demand reduction.

Thus, the minimum calculated branch circuit load for the given appliances together combines to a total of 9.6 kW, which aligns with the specifications outlined in the