What should the voltage drop limit be for feeders?

The voltage drop limit for feeders is generally recommended to be within certain percentages to ensure efficient operation of electrical systems and to prevent degradation of equipment performance. The correct answer encompasses the idea that the voltage drop limit should ideally be 3% for feeders. This limit aims to maintain the integrity and performance of the equipment connected to the feeder, as excessive voltage drop can lead to issues such as reduced efficiency and overheating.

In addition, having a combined voltage drop limit of 5% for feeders and branch circuits together recognizes the total impact on the electrical system. This two-tiered approach allows for a more comprehensive consideration of voltage drop throughout the entire distribution system and ensures that both feeders and branch circuits are optimized for performance.

Choosing 3% for feeders alone speaks to the higher sensitivity of larger, more critical systems, while 5% for the entire system accounts for the various components and distances in typical residential or commercial installations. By recommending both figures, the option captures a balanced approach to voltage drop management in feeder systems, acknowledging that different situations may call for different limits.