You've hit on a frustration that many electricians share: the disconnect between "manufacturer says" and "reality." It's a balance between code compliance, liability mitigation, and practical considerations.Here's a breakdown of the points you've raised, and some thoughts on navigating the situation

1. The Manufacturer's Instructions vs. Reality:
Manufacturer's instructions are king (and queen). The NEC 110.3(B) is very clear: Listed or labeled equipment must be installed and used according to the instructions included in the listing or labeling. Deviating opens you up to liability. Even if it seems perfectly safe, you're taking on that risk. Low Actual Load

Yes, modern appliances are often much more efficient than they used to be. The 1.2A rating you saw is likely accurate for typical operation. However, the "dedicated circuit" requirement might be based on:

Start-up Surge

Motors (compressors in ice makers and wine coolers) can have significant inrush currents during startup, even if brief. The dedicated circuit helps prevent voltage drops on other appliances or lights.

Long-Term Reliability

Manufacturers might be trying to minimize the impact of fluctuations on a shared circuit.

Worst-Case Scenario

They could be spec'ing for a situation where everything is running at its peak simultaneously (e.g., ice maker freezing, wine cooler at max cooling, compactor working hard).

Warranty Coverage

Non-compliance can void the warranty. This is a HUGE factor.

It feels wasteful

Absolutely. Running dedicated 15A circuits for things drawing only 1.2A does feel like overkill, especially when breaker space is limited and costs are high.

2. The Cost of Compliance



Subpanels

The cost of adding a subpanel, breakers, and the associated wiring adds up quickly.

AFCI/GFCI breakers

The cost is significantly higher than standard breakers.

Breaker Space

Breaker space is premium real estate, especially in older homes or remodels where the existing panel is already crowded.

Long Homeruns

This adds to the cost of wire and installation time.

3. The Liability Question



The Big Worry

You're absolutely right to be concerned about liability. If something goes wrong, the manufacturer will likely point to the fact that the installation deviated from their instructions.

Insurance

Your insurance company might also take issue with non-compliance with manufacturer's instructions if a claim arises.

The Paper Trail

If you do deviate from the manufacturer's instructions, it is imperative to get something in writing saying you are okay with the work, and they will not hold you liable. A paper trail is crucial.

4. Potential Strategies (with Caution)



Talk to the Manufacturer

This is often difficult, but if you have a good relationship with the manufacturer (or their technical support department), you could explain the situation and ask if they have any flexibility on the dedicated circuit requirement, especially given the low amperage draw. Get any exceptions in writing.



Engineering Judgement (with DOCUMENTATION)

This is the most risky and should only be done with experience and careful consideration. You could make a case, based on your professional judgement and calculations, that combining some of the circuits is safe and compliant with the NEC.

Document EVERYTHING

Perform a load calculation, take measurements, and clearly document your reasoning. Include all the appliance ratings, wire sizes, distances, and calculations in a file that you keep for the job.

Consider the Whole Load

Think about the entire load on the circuit, not just the appliance. Are there other receptacles in the area that might be used simultaneously?

Upsizing the Wire

If you're going to combine circuits, consider upsizing the wire gauge to reduce voltage drop, which is a common issue with long runs.

Communicate with the Homeowner

Explain the situation to the homeowner, the cost implications, and the potential risks of deviating from the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure they understand the liability implications.

My Recommendation



Start with the manufacturer. See if there's any wiggle room in their requirements.

Prioritize Compliance

In most cases, sticking to the manufacturer's instructions is the safest bet, even if it feels excessive. The cost of potential liability far outweighs the cost of the extra circuits.

Educate the Homeowner

Explain the reasons for the dedicated circuits and the potential downsides of deviating from them. Let them make an informed decision, but make sure they understand the risks.

Consult with an Electrical Engineer: For complex projects or when you're considering deviating from the manufacturer's instructions, consult with a licensed electrical engineer. They can provide expert analysis and recommendations.It's a frustrating situation, but erring on the side of caution and documented compliance is generally the best approach. You're doing the right thing by thinking critically about these issues and seeking advice. Flag for review