No, the demand factors specifically mentioned (commercial electric cooking equipment, dishwasher booster heaters, water heaters, and other kitchen equipment) should not be directly applied to refrigerators, microwaves, or other equipment unless the code specifically permits or directs you to do so.Here's why: Specific Equipment

Demand factors are typically developed and listed for specific types of equipment based on their usage patterns and the likelihood of them all running at full load simultaneously. The section explicitly lists "commercial electric cooking equipment, dishwasher booster heaters, water heaters, and other kitchen equipment," implying that the demand factors provided are tailored to these types of loads.

Load Diversity

Demand factors work because not all loads operate at their maximum rated capacity simultaneously. Commercial cooking equipment and dishwashers often have high but intermittent usage. The section assumes, on average, a lower overall load. Refrigerators and microwaves have different operating patterns.

Refrigerators

Refrigerators operate continuously but cycle on and off to maintain temperature. Their demand might be significantly different.

Microwaves

Microwaves have short, high-power bursts of usage. Their demand might be different as well.

Pantry vs. Commercial Kitchen



Commercial Kitchen

The demand factors are specifically for

commercial kitchens. Pantry

If the refrigerator, microwave, or other appliance is located in a pantry (residential or light commercial), the

commercial kitchen demand factors are likely not appropriate. You would typically use general-purpose receptacle load calculations or specific appliance load calculations as outlined elsewhere in the code for such applications.

In short: you should not be applying demand factors for commercial kitchen equipment to refrigerators, microwaves, or other appliances, especially if they are located in a pantry or non-commercial setting, without clear direction in the code. You should refer to the specific sections in the code dealing with general receptacle loads or specific appliance loads to calculate the demand for these items. Consult with a qualified electrical inspector or engineer to determine the correct demand factors for specific installations. Flag for review