NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

What should be the minimum load for a domestic clothes dryer branch circuit?

1. 4000 watts

2. 4500 watts

3. 5000 watts

4. 5500 watts

The correct answer is: 5000 watts

The minimum load for a domestic clothes dryer branch circuit is set at 5,000 watts based on NEC guidelines. This specification is important because it ensures that the electrical system can handle the necessary current required by the dryer during its operation. Clothes dryers typically require a significant amount of electrical power to generate the heat needed for drying clothes and to power the motor that tumbles the clothes. The 5,000-watt rating is a standard figure that accounts for the typical power consumption of residential dryers. Having an adequately rated circuit helps prevent overload situations, which can lead to circuit breaker trips or, in worst-case scenarios, electrical fires. When planning electrical installations for appliances like clothes dryers, it's crucial to adhere to these load requirements to ensure safety and functionality. A circuit that does not meet the minimum load requirement may not offer sufficient power, leading to inefficient operation or even damage to the appliance over time.