What is the minimum branch circuit rating for a single electric range of over 8-3/4 kVA?

The minimum branch circuit rating for a single electric range that exceeds 8-3/4 kVA is determined by the National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines. In this context, an electric range’s load can be calculated using the kilovolt-ampere (kVA) rating.

To convert the kVA to amperes, we can use the formula:

I (Amperes) = Power (kVA) / Voltage (Volts).

For residential applications, the standard voltage for ranges is typically considered to be 240 volts. Therefore, for an electric range rated over 8-3/4 kVA (which is equivalent to 8750 watts, since 1 kVA = 1000 watts), the calculation becomes:

I = 8750 watts / 240 volts = approximately 36.5 amperes.

The National Electrical Code requires circuits to be rated for a higher load to ensure safety and accommodate potential surges, therefore standard practice determines that a branch circuit for ranges must be rated at least 40 amperes. Thus the correct minimum branch circuit rating is 40A, which provides sufficient capacity for safe operation of the electric range under normal conditions.