NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

What is the minimum load in volt-amperes for each 2-wire laundry branch circuit?

1. 1200

2. 1500

3. 1800

4. 2000

The correct answer is: 1500

The minimum load for each 2-wire laundry branch circuit, as specified by the National Electrical Code (NEC), is 1500 volt-amperes. This requirement is established to ensure that there is adequate power available for operating typical laundry equipment, such as washing machines and dryers, which often have higher power demands. The reason this figure is set at 1500 volt-amperes is to accommodate the continuous load needs of residential laundry equipment, allowing for reliable and safe operation without the circuit being overloaded. It ensures that the circuit can handle the electrical demands without tripping breakers or creating hazards due to insufficient power supply. While other values may be associated with different types of circuits or additional appliances, the code specifically mandates the 1500 volt-amperes standard for 2-wire laundry circuits to support typical usage scenarios effectively.