A circuit breaker is an electrical element that offers control over the power outlet source. It allows both manual and automatic operations and is used to protect the power system in an electrical setting.
Due to large quantities of currents running through the modern power system, a circuit breaker should be designed to efficiently produce trips and interrupt the arc generated while shutting down the circuit breaker.
You should know how many lights to use on a 15 amp circuit in order to avoid sparks and other electrical risks. You can talk to an electrician to make sure that your circuit is not connected to more outlets than it is designed for.
Components Of A Circuit Breaker:
There are different types of breakers, including low and medium-voltage circuit breakers. Each has a unique design that depends upon its application, ampere, and voltage, but there are five major components that are found in each circuit breaker. They form the basic skeleton of a breaker and are given as follows:
1. Frame:
It works as a protective element against environmental factors. It encases the internal elements of a circuit breaker to keep it away from moisture, dust, and other environmental impacts.
2. Operating Mechanism:
This identifies the method we will use in order to open and close the breaker.
3. Contacts:
This element of the circuit breaker allows the passage of current through the breaker when it is closed.
- Arc Extinguisher: This is the part that prevents the circuit breaker from producing an arc upon interruption of a fault.
- Trip Unit: It automatically opens the operating mechanism when a prolonged overload or short circuit is encountered.
How Many Watts Can A 15 Amp Breaker Handle?
During specific occasions, it feels special to light up your house with colorful lights. Whether it’s Christmas or New Year’s Eve, people love to put up beautiful lights in their houses to decorate their space. However, it is also essential to be careful of the number of watts you are putting on your breakers. If a 15 amp circuit breaker is exposed to more current than it can handle, it can end up creating trips and outages in the breaker.
You may be wondering now how many amp on a 15 amp circuit will work? Each 15 amp breaker in your circuit box can run light of 1K (or 1800-2000 watts) without blowing. However, the formula should avoid loading the breaker over 80% of its capacity. If a 15 amp breaker is overworked, it can have dangerous consequences. That is why it is advisable to hire an electrician that will assist you with your electrical work. They will also recommend which appliances and electronics you can use on a 15 amp breaker.
Breakdown Of Wattage On A 15 Amp Breaker
There is no defined number of lights that can be used on a 15 amp or 20 amp circuit breaker. The load solely depends upon the wattage each light holds. That is why there is also no specific number of outlets you can connect with a 15 or 20 amp breaker, as it depends upon the wattage and amperes of the devices you are plugging into them.
For example, if you are using an electrical appliance that requires 15 amperes to operate, it leaves no room for the attachment of another plug on the same breaker. Connecting another appliance that uses 10 amps will end up in a circuit blowout. Most homes have about 10 outlets on a 15 amp breaker, but all can not be used simultaneously.
The wiring of lights and outlets are found on different circuit branches. This means that both the lights and outlets are controlled and protected through a separate circuit breaker. However, the number of lights and outlets that can be installed on the breaker box is defined by the amperage and wattage each light draws in. You should also be careful while switching them all at the same time to avoid blowing the breaker. Most household appliances operate at 110-125 volts and have been rated at 115 volts, which means that 1725 watts is suitable for a 15 amp circuit or cord.
Take Precautions While Installing Outlets For A 15 Amp Circuit:
When you are installing outlets for a 15 amp breaker, it is a good choice to not add more than the circuit can hold. Avoid performing DIY electrical works and consult a licensed electrician to take care of the task. They will inspect your electrical system, and install outlets according to the breaker capacity to ensure maximum safety. You can also take advantage of their expertise and get recommendations on which devices you can plug in together.
We hope that this article answers your question of how many watts can a 15 amp breaker handle. If you need to get an electrical inspection done or require help for outlet installation, you can contact Bright Electric. We will ensure that your electrical requirements are taken care of while following the essential codes of safety.
