How to Calculate Breaker Box Load 200 Amps
Can your 200 amp breaker box handle the demands put on it without damaging the breakers? Mapping out the electrical needs of your home will show you whether you are remaining at or below the 200 amp capacity of your system.
How to Calculate Amps for a Breaker Box
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Determine the size of wiring in your circuits. A 14-gauge wire has a 15 amp rating. A 12-gauge wire has a 20 amp rating.
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Check that each breaker has the same amp rating as the wire ratings. They can have different wiring and amp capabilities, but each should not exceed the number of amps that the breaker can handle. You'll find this number on top of the toggle switch. It may also have a bar that connects two switches on the same breaker.
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The standard voltage for a home is 120 volts. If you have 12-gauge wires with 20 amps, multiply 20 amps by 120 volts to get the total amount of watts that a particular circuit can handle. In this case its would be 2,400 watts. Do this for every circuit to find the total wattage your breaker box needs to handle.
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Check every light fixture and outlet in your home or building. Add up the amps based on wiring.
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As long as you do not have more than 200 amps going into your breaker box you should be fine, but remember that your total watt load will be the sum you determined in Step 3.
Writer Bio
Sarka-Jonae Miller has been a freelance writer and editor since 2003. She was a personal trainer for four years with certifications from AFAA and NASM. Miller also worked at 24 Hour Fitness, LA Fitness and as a mobile trainer. Her career in the fitness industry begin in 2000 as a martial arts, yoga and group exercise instructor. She graduated cum laude from Syracuse University.
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