For an EVSE drawing 32 amperes, what size breaker is necessary for compliance with regulations?

For an Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) that draws 32 amperes, it is important to ensure that the circuit breaker is sized appropriately to comply with National Electrical Code (NEC) regulations. The NEC states that circuit breakers should be rated for at least 125% of the continuous load to prevent overheating and ensure safety.

In the case of a 32-amp draw, you would calculate the necessary breaker size by multiplying 32 by 1.25 (which accounts for continuous load). This calculation gives you 40 amperes. Therefore, a 40A breaker would provide the necessary capacity to safely handle the 32A load and comply with safety regulations.

Choosing a breaker that is smaller, such as a 30A, would not provide enough capacity and could lead to the breaker tripping under normal use. Conversely, while a 50A or 60A breaker can handle the load and is technically compliant, they exceed the requirements and do not align with the principle of sizing breakers as closely as possible to the load, leading to inefficiencies in the system. Thus, the 40A breaker is the most appropriate choice for a 32A draw, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.