TOPIC: Wire size for Hot water heater

Yeah, I suppose I should make a habit of recording nameplate info. I was assuming water tanks should be 30 amp, but we know what happens when we assume-especially Home Inspectors! Hope I don't get grief for calling it out-we'll see what happens.

Should be #10 wire and 30 amp or #12 with 20 amp breaker. HVAC condensers wire can sometimes be a size lower in our area because it is a surge. A 50 amp breaker with only #8 is ok here, but not in New Mexico.

this does not concern the nameplate rating, it's what the actual voltage is at the appliance!

You can operate 240 V appliance on 200 V but the amperage changes significantly. You must use Ohm's law and convert the rated heater element with actual voltages.

I agree with david here as long as we're talking about a resistant load like the heating element. An induction load like a compressor or refrigerator motor can be harmed by lower voltages

That equipment has nameplates with RLA, LRA, and required circuit sizes listed.

Thought you were talking about Hot Water Heaters in this thread? 

Exactly, David. That's why I wanted to be sure and clarify we were discussing the voltage on resistant loads, i.e., a hot water tank. You and I understand about RLA's and LRA's, but I'm sure there are many inspectors here without that type of knowledge or training. Thanks again for your input, it's always great to get feedback from real pros in the field.