What is the minimum size service entrance conductor for a dwelling unit?

What is the minimum size service entrance conductor for a dwelling unit?

• A. #2 copper
• B. #4 copper
• C. #10 copper
• D. #6 copper

Answer: (B)

The minimum size service entrance conductor for a dwelling unit is determined according to the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, which take into account the amperage capacity needed for typical households. In this case, #4 copper conductor is considered the minimum size for a residential service entrance when providing sufficient ampacity. It is capable of handling the typical service loads found in most dwelling units while adhering to safety standards set forth by the NEC. This size allows for adequate power distribution to the various circuits in a home, including lighting and appliances, which commonly require a reliable and safe electrical supply. The other options listed do not meet the NEC's requirements for minimum size for a dwelling unit service entrance. For example, #2 copper is larger than necessary for basic household needs, which would be over-specification and potentially more expensive to install without providing additional benefits for typical residential applications. Similarly, #10 copper and #6 copper do not provide enough ampacity for a residential service, potentially leading to overheating or insufficient power supply, making them unsuitable for service entrance use. Choosing #4 copper ensures compliance with safety regulations while also providing the necessary power capacity that meets the demands of a dwelling unit.

The minimum size service entrance conductor for a dwelling unit is determined according to the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, which take into account the amperage capacity needed for typical households.

In this case, #4 copper conductor is considered the minimum size for a residential service entrance when providing sufficient ampacity. It is capable of handling the typical service loads found in most dwelling units while adhering to safety standards set forth by the NEC. This size allows for adequate power distribution to the various circuits in a home, including lighting and appliances, which commonly require a reliable and safe electrical supply.

The other options listed do not meet the NEC's requirements for minimum size for a dwelling unit service entrance. For example, #2 copper is larger than necessary for basic household needs, which would be over-specification and potentially more expensive to install without providing additional benefits for typical residential applications. Similarly, #10 copper and #6 copper do not provide enough ampacity for a residential service, potentially leading to overheating or insufficient power supply, making them unsuitable for service entrance use.

Choosing #4 copper ensures compliance with safety regulations while also providing the necessary power capacity that meets the demands of a dwelling unit.