For a 240V branch circuit rated at 30 amps, what is the maximum load permitted?

To determine the maximum load permitted on a 240V branch circuit rated at 30 amps, you can use the formula for calculating electrical power, which is:

Power (in Volt-Amperes or VA) = Voltage (in volts) x Current (in amps).

In this case, the voltage is 240V and the current is 30 amps. Therefore, you can calculate the maximum load as follows:

Power = 240V x 30A = 7200 VA.

This calculation shows that the maximum load that the circuit can safely handle is 7200 VA. Choosing the answer that corresponds to this calculation is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), which sets standards for electrical installations. If the load exceeds this capacity, it could result in overheating, tripping breakers, or potential fire hazards due to the excessive current draw.

The choice labeled as '5760 VA' does not reflect the correct calculation and would suggest an underestimation of the circuit's capacity. Other incorrect options similarly fail to align with the established formula, reinforcing the importance of using correct calculations when assessing electrical load limits.