Oklahoma Electrical Practice Exam

What is the maximum load allowed on a cord and plug connected neon sign circuit with a 20 amp breaker?

1. 14 amps

2. 16 amps

3. 18 amps

4. 20 amps

The correct answer is: 16 amps

The maximum load allowed on a cord and plug connected neon sign circuit with a 20 amp breaker is determined by the necessity to adhere to safe operating standards, typically following the National Electrical Code (NEC). The NEC suggests that a continuous load should not exceed 80% of the circuit breaker’s rating to prevent overheating and potential hazards. In the case of a 20 amp breaker, the 80% rule would calculate the maximum safe load as follows: 20 amps x 0.80 = 16 amps. This means that the safe operating limit for a continuous load on this circuit should not exceed 16 amps. While there might be other factors to consider, such as the nature of the load and the specific application, the standard recommendations prioritize safety above all. Thus, choosing 16 amps, due to it being 80% of the circuit capacity, ensures that the system remains within safe limits, promoting reliable operation while mitigating the risk of equipment failure or electrical fires.