Two questions.

[Goofy5953]

Lights that are controlled by a light switch. Continuous or non-continuous load? I say non. For info they are in a large residential barn/garage w/high traffic. I know location doesn't matter, just trying to give info.

Also 20 amp light circuit. 15 amp switches. Load is less than 10 amps. Code says not in nut shell not to overload switch.

Looking for specific articles to help my case. Thanks....

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I don't believe the fact that a switch is involved would determine the use as continuous or not. If the lights are likely to be on for more than 3 hours than I would say continuous.

The switch being 15 amp is fine as long as the load on the switch does not go over 15 amps.

 

[mcclary's electrical]

The load on the switch should not be over twelve amps for a switch rated at 15 amps

 

[Dennis Alwon]

The load on the switch should not be over twelve amps for a switch rated at 15 amps

Why? If it is not a continuous load then it should be able to handle 15 amps.

 

[PetrosA]

The load on the switch should not be over twelve amps for a switch rated at 15 amps

I question this as well. When dealing with dimmers, I've called the manufacturers for clarification, and dimmers are rated for their listed watt load, IOW, a 600W dimmer can handle 600 watts without any kind of 80% calculations.

 

[steve066]

In my opinion, any lighting branch circuit is continuous.

I have always assumed a the rating on a light switch was based on continuous load, and a 15 amp light switch could be loaded to 15 amps forever. Is that incorrect???

 

[wasasparky]

The switch being 15 amp is fine as long as the load on the switch does not go over 15 amps.

Even on a 20A branch circuit?
I can't find a code section allowing that...:-?

 

[turtlejenn]

Even on a 20A branch circuit?
I can't find a code section allowing that...:-?

404.14 2005 or 2008,nfpa 70

 

[wasasparky]

404.14 2005 or 2008,nfpa 70

Thanks
But I still need 20A wire on both sides of that 15A switch...:roll::roll::roll:

 

[wasasparky]

Thanks
But I still need 20A wire on both sides of that 15A switch...:roll::roll::roll:

I keep thinking about the people who wire only 20A residential circuits.
Some thought OK to use #14 to the light, as there is very little load...they were set straight...

If a reduction in switch ampacity is allowed, why not the conductor?
(Just being devil's advocate here - don't flame me:smile

 

[benaround]

I keep thinking about the people who wire only 20A residential circuits.
Some thought OK to use #14 to the light, as there is very little load...they were set straight...

If a reduction in switch ampacity is allowed, why not the conductor?
(Just being devil's advocate here - don't flame me:smile

What size conductor would you use with a 600w dimmer on a 20a branch circuit.

600/120 = 5a

 

[LarryFine]

What size conductor would you use with a 600w dimmer on a 20a branch circuit.

600/120 = 5a

Oh, please! :roll: Everyone knows the answer to that one: Lamp cord.