Branch circuit loads

[poolshark]

I'm wiring up a basement and I've run into a few questions.

I want to run 16 recessed lights on a 15a circuit: the lamps are rated for 75w. This gives about a 10a load, am I correct in that I use the lamps rating to figure out the circuit load?

Also do I need to use 180va for all my recepticals, seems like 8 per branch is kinda light?

 

[srvrrmguy]

Re: Branch circuit loads

I use 8 openings as the max on all circuits as some of the local ahjs enforce it that way. nothing prevents some one from installing 90w or even 150w bulbs latter. Eric

 

[roger]

Re: Branch circuit loads

poolshark,

am I correct in that I use the lamps rating to figure out the circuit load?

as far as incandescent lamps yes.

Also do I need to use 180va for all my receptacles, seems like 8 per branch is kinda light?

you are right, it is most likely light in a residential installation.

The 180va does not apply to residential circuits and in fact there is no limit to how many receptacles can be installed on a residential circuit.

Eric,

I use 8 openings as the max on all circuits as some of the local ahjs enforce it that way.

do these local areas have a formal addendum to be able to enforce this?

It is not enforcible under the NEC.

Roger

[ June 26, 2004, 06:31 PM: Message edited by: roger ]

 

[steve66]

Re: Branch circuit loads

Please see 220.3(B)(4) and (B)(5). I think (4) means you have to use the rating of the largest lamp the fixture or lampholder is designed for. Actually, I'm kind of supprised that (4) only applies to recessed luminaires. I would think the same logic would be applied to surface mounted fixtures.

Steve