CSLB C-10 Electrical ContractorPlanning and EstimatingMedium
A residential client is planning a new laundry room. The plans specify a 120V, 20A branch circuit for the washing machine and a separate 120V, 20A branch circuit for the gas dryer receptacle. What is the minimum load (in VA) that must be calculated for the laundry branch circuit, according to NEC 220.52(B)?
- A1500 VA
- B1000 VA
- C2400 VA
- D2000 VA
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 1500 VA
According to NEC 220.52(B), for dwelling units, a minimum load of 1500 VA must be included for each 20A laundry branch circuit.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 1000 VA is too low for a dedicated laundry branch circuit calculation.
- C. 2400 VA represents the full capacity of a 20A, 120V circuit (20A * 120V), not the minimum required load for calculation.
- D. 2000 VA is not the specified minimum for a laundry branch circuit.
Laundry Branch Circuit Load
A specific minimum VA load mandated by the NEC for each dedicated laundry branch circuit in dwelling units, ensuring adequate capacity for laundry appliances.
- NEC 210.11(C)(2) requires at least one 20A branch circuit for the laundry area.
- NEC 220.52(B) specifies a minimum calculated load of 1500 VA for this circuit.
- This load is applied even if the actual washing machine draws less, or if a gas dryer is used (which still requires a 120V receptacle for its motor/controls).
Memory trick: Laundry load: 'One' circuit, 'Fixed' VA 'Minimum'.