Ecmweb 2227 210 23a2 01web
Ecmweb 2227 210 23a2 01web
Ecmweb 2227 210 23a2 01web
Ecmweb 2227 210 23a2 01web
Ecmweb 2227 210 23a2 01web

Code Q&A

Nov. 17, 2011
Q. Are lighting outlets in dwelling units allowed on the same circuit as receptacle outlets?

Q. Are lighting outlets in dwelling units allowed on the same circuit as receptacle outlets?

A. An individual branch circuit is permitted to supply any load for which it's rated, but in no case is the load permitted to exceed the branch circuit ampere rating [210.23]. Branch circuits rated 15A or 20A supplying two or more outlets must only supply loads in accordance with 210.23(A), which says that a 15A or 20A branch circuit is permitted to supply lighting, equipment, or any combination of both. Except for temporary installations [590.4(D)], 15A or 20A circuits can be used to supply both lighting and receptacles on the same circuit.

Cord- and plug-connected equipment not fastened in place, such as a drill press or table saw, must not have an ampere rating more than 80% of the branch circuit rating [210.23(A)(1)]. UL and other testing laboratories list portable equipment (such as hair dryers) up to 100% of the circuit rating. The NEC is an installation standard, not a product standard, so it can't prohibit this practice. There really is no way to limit the load to 80% of the branch circuit rating if testing laboratories permit equipment to be listed for 100% of the circuit rating.

Equipment fastened in place (other than luminaires) must not be rated more than 50% of the branch circuit ampere rating if this circuit supplies luminaires, receptacles, or both [210.23(A)(2)], as shown in the Figure above.

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.

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