Master Electrician Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common rating for residential service panels?

1. 60 amps

2. 100 amps

3. 200 amps

4. 400 amps

The correct answer is: 200 amps

In residential electrical systems, service panels are designed to distribute electricity from the utility line to various circuits within the home. A common rating for service panels is 200 amps. This rating represents the maximum amount of current the panel can handle safely and allows for the operation of multiple appliances and electrical devices simultaneously without risking overload. The 200 amp rating has become the standard for modern homes as it accommodates the increasing energy demands of newer appliances, heating and cooling systems, and the growing use of electronics. This level of service ensures that households have sufficient capacity for various circuits, including lighting, heating, air conditioning, and outlets for equipment such as washers, dryers, and ovens. While 60 amps, 100 amps, and even 400 amps are valid service panel ratings, they are less common for typical residential applications. A 60 amp panel may still be found in very small homes or older properties, while a 100 amp panel may be more typical of older homes that have not been upgraded. A 400 amp service panel is generally considered for larger homes, custom builds, or commercial applications that exceed typical residential power needs. Hence, 200 amps is widely recognized as the most suitable and common rating for contemporary residential service panels.