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  • Oct 6, 2006, 06:55 PM
    terryrinke3888
    Wiring a new home
    How many watts can you put on a 20 amp breaker?
  • Oct 7, 2006, 06:39 AM
    tkrussell
    The calculation for power is:

    W=EI
    W=Watts ( or power)
    E = Volts
    I= Amperes

    W= 120 volts times 20 amps= 2400 watts

    If the circuit or load will operate more than 3 hours it is considered as a continuous load and the rating of the circuit is lilimited to ,or derated, to 80%or 1920 watts max on a 20 amp circuit.

    Thou this is rare for residential wiring, many electricians still use this as a guideline for home wiring as a reasonable safety factor, but is not mandatory.

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