A 120/240V, single-phase residential service panel supplies power to a kitchen area. The kitchen has a total of 8 fixtures that require 20A each. What is the minimum branch-circuit rating required for this kitchen area?

Exam tip

Always check if the total load exceeds 150% of the branch-circuit rating to determine the minimum required rating.

Why C is correct

According to 210.16(A), the minimum branch-circuit rating is the sum of the loads served. Here, 8 fixtures at 20A each equals 160A. However, 210.16(B) states that if the sum of the loads exceeds 150% of the rating of the branch-circuit, the branch-circuit rating shall be increased to the next standard size. 150% of 160A is 240A, which is the next standard size above 160A.