A circuit connects a power source to fuses, switches, and a load, with branch circuits running from a circuit breaker panel to devices in a building. Branch circuits are classified as generic, appliance, or individual circuits. They provide power to electrical devices and are classified by their current carrying capacity and the type of devices they serve. General-purpose circuits supply power to lamps and outlets, while appliance circuits supply power to stationary electrical appliances. Single branch circuits supply power to a specific device, usually a permanent fixture.
A circuit consists of a wire that connects a power source to fuses, switches, and a load. The load is the device that consumes the energy flowing through the circuit, such as the bulb in a lamp. A branch circuit is a special type of circuit that runs from a circuit breaker panel to devices in a building. Branch circuits are classified as generic, appliance or individual circuits depending on their function.
Any building that is wired for electricity has a circuit breaker panel. This panel is usually a metal box or cabinet filled with switches and set into the wall. Each switch is connected to an electrical circuit in your home and can cut power to that circuit if it is turned off. A branch circuit runs from each switch to the building’s outlets, lamps, and appliances.
The purpose of a branch circuit is to provide power to electrical devices in your home. Each one consists of a loop of wire that runs from the circuit breaker panel to the lights and outlets and back again. They are classified according to their current carrying capacity and the type of devices they serve.
A general-purpose branch circuit is a 120-volt circuit that supplies power to lamps and outlets. Modern general circuits use 12 gauge wire and are rated for up to 20 amps (amperes). Ampere refers to the amount of electric charge that passes through a given point in the circuit in a unit of time. In older buildings, 14-gauge wire was used to construct branch circuits rated for no more than 15 amps. Fifteen amps are no longer considered sufficient for most homes.
Power is supplied to stationary electrical appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers through a branch circuit of the appliance. Like general purpose circuits, appliance circuits also carry 120 volts and cannot exceed 20 amps. They do not supply power to any type of chandelier.
A single branch circuit supplies power to a specific device, usually a permanent fixture such as a clothes dryer or electric stove. Because the circuit runs on only one fixture, power to that fixture can be cut without affecting power supply to the rest of the building. This is useful if there is a fire or if the device needs to be serviced. These circuits vary in amperage depending on the appliance they are to serve.
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