Journeyman Electrician Exam (NEC)Equipment and DevicesMedium
A residential garage requires a new 120-volt, 20-ampere branch circuit for general-purpose receptacles. According to NEC 210.11(C)(4), how many such branch circuits are required at a minimum for garages of dwelling units?
- ATwo 15-ampere branch circuits
- BOne 15-ampere branch circuit
- COne 20-ampere branch circuit
- DTwo 20-ampere branch circuits
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. One 20-ampere branch circuit
NEC 210.11(C)(4) specifically states that at least one 120-volt, 20-ampere branch circuit shall be provided to supply the receptacle outlets in attached garages and in detached garages with electric power. This circuit can also supply readily accessible outdoor receptacle outlets.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Two 15-ampere circuits do not meet the 20-ampere requirement.
- B. A 15-ampere circuit is not permitted; it must be 20-ampere.
- D. While two 20-ampere circuits would be acceptable, the minimum requirement is one.
Garage Receptacle Circuits
Specific NEC requirements for the number and rating of 120-volt branch circuits dedicated to supplying receptacle outlets in dwelling unit garages.
- Minimum of one 20-ampere branch circuit.
- Must be 120-volt.
- Can also supply outdoor receptacles.
Memory trick: Garage Circuits: One 20-Amp Guard.