Calculating the Circuit Size for Lights and Ceiling Fans
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How to Determine the Circuit Size for a Lighting by Calculating the Total Electrical Load… |
Calculating the Circuit Size for Lighting
[ad#block]Electrical Question: I want to put 2 to 3 68 watt fluorescent ceiling lights, 1 ceiling fan rated at 39 watts and 1 duplex wall outlet on a 20amp circuit. I can do away with one fluorescent light and the wall outlet if needed.
This electrical question came from: Neil, from Rogersville, Tennessee
See more about Home Wiring for Tennessee
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Neil
Electrical Lighting Circuits
How to Determine the Circuit Size for Lighting Based on Watts
- Neil, you are on the right track to determine the wire size of the electrical circuit. Adding up the total number of watts is the best way to see what the actual load will be.
- There are typically two circuit sizes that can be used for home lighting:
- 15 amps, 120 volts which has the rated capacity of 1800 watts.
- 20 amps, 120 volts which has the rated capacity of 2400 watts.
- These calculations are based on 100% power factor.
- Keep in mind that an electrical circuit should be loaded to 80% of the rated capacity.
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