You're asking a very important question that hinges on how the motel rooms are legally defined and how they are used. Here's a breakdown of the considerations and how to approach the load calculation

Understanding the Key Issue: Permanent Provisions for Cooking

The crux of the matter lies in whether the rooms are considered "dwelling units" according to the NEC. The presence of a cooktop significantly increases the likelihood that they are treated as dwelling units.

NEC Definition of Dwelling Unit

A single unit providing complete and independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, cooking, and sanitation.

If the Rooms are NOT Considered Dwelling Units

If the motel rooms are not considered dwelling units (meaning they lack the complete and independent living facilities), then you would likely use the provisions of Article 220, Part III (General Loads) and other applicable sections of the NEC for commercial buildings. You would base your calculations on the provided information from the owner and the specific loads installed in each room. This would include the cooktop's nameplate rating, receptacle loads based on their purpose, and lighting loads.

If the Rooms ARE Considered Dwelling Units



This is the most likely scenario given the presence of cooktops. If the rooms are deemed dwelling units, you must follow the NEC requirements for dwelling units. This means you must include: General Lighting and Receptacle Load

3 VA per square foot (as you mentioned).

Small Appliance Branch Circuits

Two 20-ampere small appliance branch circuits (1500 VA each).

Laundry Circuit

Even if there's no actual laundry equipment, if the room has provisions for laundry (e.g., a designated space and receptacle), you should include a 1500 VA laundry circuit. Check with the local inspector; some jurisdictions will allow you to omit the laundry circuit if it's explicitly prohibited and the design clearly shows no intention for laundry facilities. Document this decision clearly in your plans.

Cooktop

The nameplate rating of the cooktop. You will need to apply demand factors from Table 220.55.

Other Loads

Any other known loads provided by the owner (e.g., HVAC units, water heaters).

Why the NEC Requires These Minimums for Dwelling Units

The NEC's minimum load requirements for dwelling units are based on the expectation of a certain level of electrical usage associated with typical residential living. Even if the owner intends to limit usage, the NEC wants to ensure the electrical system is adequate for potential future use.

How to Determine if the Rooms are Dwelling Units


Local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction)

This is the most important step. Consult with your local building and electrical inspectors. They have the final say on how the rooms are classified. Provide them with the room layouts and a list of appliances and features in each room. Explain the intended use.2.

Review Building Codes

Check your local building codes. They may have definitions or clarifications related to dwelling units and how they apply to motel/hotel settings.3.

Consider Long-Term Use

If the motel is designed for extended stays (e.g., kitchenette with a cooktop) or has a history of long-term residents, it's more likely the rooms will be considered dwelling units.

Important Considerations and Recommendations



Documentation is Key

Document all conversations with the AHJ, and keep records of your code research. This is crucial if there are any questions later.

Be Conservative

When in doubt, it's generally better to err on the side of being more conservative in your load calculations. Undersizing the electrical system can lead to safety issues, nuisance tripping, and costly upgrades later.

Owner's Intent vs. Code Requirements

The owner's provided loads are input, but they don't override the NEC requirements. You must ensure the design meets the NEC, regardless of the owner's expectations.

Table 220.55 (Demand Factors for Ranges)

You will likely use this table to apply demand factors to the cooktop load, even if the rooms are treated as dwelling units. Note 4 to Table 220.55 says that a cooktop is permitted to be treated the same as a range.

In Summary:

The presence of cooktops strongly suggests that the motel rooms will be treated as dwelling units under the NEC. Consult your local AHJ to get a definitive answer. If they are considered dwelling units, you must follow the NEC's requirements for dwelling unit load calculations, including the 3 VA per square foot, small appliance circuits, and laundry circuit (unless explicitly permitted to be omitted by the AHJ). Don't rely solely on the owner's provided loads; the NEC sets the minimum standards for safety and adequacy. Flag for review