ICC Residential Electrical Inspectors Practice Exam

For which type of appliances can the branch circuit overcurrent device serve as a disconnecting means?

1. appliances rated over 200 volt-amperes

2. appliances rated at or under 300 volt-amperes

3. all types of appliances

4. appliances rated over 1/8 hp

The correct answer is: appliances rated at or under 300 volt-amperes

The branch circuit overcurrent device can serve as a disconnecting means for appliances rated at or under 300 volt-amperes. This is established in existing electrical codes, which stipulate that for most residential applications, the overcurrent protective device, such as a circuit breaker, can be used to both protect the circuit from overload and serve as a means to disconnect the appliance from the power source. Appliances rated at or under 300 volt-amperes are typically common household devices that do not require specialized disconnect switching requirements beyond what is provided by the overcurrent device. This allows for more straightforward installations and maintenance practices, ensuring that the area can be safely de-energized without needing additional separate switches or devices. In contrast, appliances with ratings significantly above this threshold may have additional requirements due to their potential for higher energy consumption and associated risks. Higher rated appliances often necessitate specific disconnecting means or controls that are designed to accommodate their operational demands. Hence, the focus on the 300 volt-ampere rating indicates the threshold below which the branch circuit overcurrent protective device can be utilized effectively for disconnection without additional specialized hardware.