On Friday, August 1, 2014 11:41:20 PM UTC-4, wrote:
On Fri, 1 Aug 2014 04:54:14 -0700 (PDT), wrote:



Ok here is the logic

The manufacturer probably specified a 50 amp breaker to reduce trips during the startup inrush. You all know an a/c has a large inrush current.

Now if you are using a 50 amp breaker you MUST use #6ga or larger wire to be safe and meet code.

The breaker and wire size must match to be safe.

But it does seem the directions were confusing re the number of conductors needed.

6-2 is three total conductors, 2 that carry current and one safety ground.



Mark

Unless flexible cord is used - it said 3 conductor - which COULD be

read either way.

No it can't. The ground is not referred to as a conductor, by code,
by the manufacturer, or by anyone who knows what they are doing. Go
look at a box of Romex. It's sold as 14/2, 14/3, with ground. That is
either two or three conductors plus ground.



And many air conditioner installations do spec

flexible cable between the house (disconnect) and the unit.


Please show us some examples, I've never seen one.




And remember - if the unit draws a constant 26 amps, it is over-spec

for a 30 amp circuit (maximum 80% rated current for continuous use)

Wrong again. The eqpt is marked for a circuit with a minimum ampacity
of 26A. A 30 Amp circuit exceeds that.