For an electric clothes dryer, which rating should be used if the nameplate rating is higher than the standard load?

The appropriate rating to use for an electric clothes dryer when the nameplate rating exceeds the standard load is indeed the nameplate rating. This rating reflects the manufacturer's specifications for the appliance and indicates the maximum power draw that the dryer may require during operation. It is crucial to adhere to this rating in order to ensure safe and efficient operation, as inflating the load based on standard values could lead to insufficient power supply, resulting in poor performance or even damage to the appliance.

The standard loads provided, such as 4000 watts or 5000 watts, are typically used for general sizing of circuit breakers, wiring, and load calculations. However, these values may not accurately represent the actual load of the appliance in question if the nameplate rating is higher. It is essential to prioritize the nameplate rating in these scenarios to prevent overloading circuits and ensure compliance with electrical code requirements.