Circuit load is the amount of power drawn through an electrical circuit, with maximum loads determined by the wiring and circuit breaker/fuse rating. Different appliances require different loads, and circuit load can be calculated by adding up individual appliance power requirements. Lighting calculations should be based on the highest power consumption expected.
Circuit load refers to the amount of power drawn through a given electrical circuit. Typical household circuits are rated for a maximum load of 15, 20 or 30 amps and should have a normal extended operating load of no more than 80% of their maximum rating. The maximum circuit load for any particular circuit is determined by the wiring used in that circuit. Different types of appliances will place different loads on a building’s electrical system, and the circuits should be designed to support the appliances that will ultimately draw energy from them.
The maximum circuit load is determined by the rating of the circuit breaker or, in older buildings, the fuse on that circuit and the thickness of the wire used to install the circuit. Thicker wire can safely carry more current. Fourteen gauge wire, which is 0.0641 inch (1.628 mm) in diameter, can safely carry a 15 amp circuit load, 12 gauge, 0.080 inch (2.053 mm) diameter wire, can handle 20 amps and 10 gauge, 0.1019 inch (2.588 mm), is rated for 30 amps. Longer strokes require a larger line to account for the gradual increase in resistance imposed by the longer stroke. Local building codes may further modify these basic requirements and should always be consulted.
Circuit load can be calculated by adding together the power required by the individual appliances on that circuit. Some appliances will indicate the amount of energy they draw in amps. Others will be rated in watts and volts. Most household circuits will run on 110 volts, while some power-intensive appliances, such as electric ranges or clothes dryers, will need to be placed on higher voltage circuits. To determine the wattage rating of an appliance, use the values for watts and volts in the equation: watts = volts x amperes. For example, an appliance drawing 330 watts at 110 volts would require 330/110, or 3, amps of power.
When calculating the circuit load for a circuit that will include lighting, the calculations should always be based on the highest power consumption that could be expected. If a lamp can safely accept bulbs up to 100 watts, calculations should be based on the assumption that 100 watt bulbs will be used. CFLs indicate the power they draw, but some other types of fluorescent fixtures require power based on the needs of the ballasts inside the lamp, rather than just on the bulbs used. This information should be listed on the outside of the lamp or on the ballast.
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