How to Determine Amperage of Circuit Breaker: 5 Steps - wikiHow

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How to Determine Amperage of Circuit Breaker

Determine the current draw of the circuit. Do a little simple math.

Steps

Find the data plate or label on the device you are trying to connect or wire.

Find the section labeled FLA or LRA, this is the "full load amp" or "locked rotor amp" (motor operated devices) rating, respectively. In many instances, the load will be expressed in watts or kilowatts (kW), ie: 4500 watts or 4.5kW.

Determine current in amps. Divide the wattage by the voltage of the circuit, in North America usually 120 or 240, ie: An electric water heater 4500w / 240v = 18.75 amps. This is the approximate amperage the device requires.

Derate the circuit. Multiply by 1.25, the National Electrical code requires protection at %125, ie: 18.75 x 1.25 = 23.43 amp circuit.

Install circuit breaker to meets that size. If such a size is not available, choose the next standard size up, ie: 23.43 = 30 amp circuit breaker or fuse. Be sure to install wiring that will safely carry the current passed by the circuit breaker. In the case of a water heater, #10 copper will handle 30 amps and should be used. Standard 120 volt branch circuits like those for lighting require 15 amps. Appliance circuits, ie: kitchen and dining rooms require 20 amp circuits.

Warnings
Conversely, you can determine the maximum current a circuit breaker can pass continuously by multiplying the circuit breaker's rating by .8 to determine 80% of the rating (a 15 amp breaker can pass 15 x .8 = 12 amps and a 20 amp is 20 x .8 = 16 amps). Do not connect loads that exceed this 80% calculated value. Be sure you use a circuit breaker that is the same brand as the panel box you are installing, otherwise no warranty. Be sure the wiring you are attaching to this circuit breaker is the right size to carry the amperage. Minimum 14 gauge for 15 amp circuits and minimum 12 gauge for 20 amp circuits. This is important. The NEC (National Electrical Code) is published by the NFPA (National Fire Prevention Association) and that's not a coincidence!

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