An electrical circuit is a continuous loop.

It is the complete path traversed by an electric current

which collectively defines an entire house wiring installation. On the other hand, a branch
circuit is composed of the circuit conductors between the final over-current protective device
and its outlets.

A branch circuit is defined as that part of an electric circuit extending beyond the last circuit
breaker or fuse. The branch circuits start at the breaker box and extend to the electrical devices
connected to the service. Branch circuits are the last part of the circuit supplying electrical
devices

Household circuits carry electricity from the main service panel, throughout the house, and
back to the main service panel. Several switches, receptacles, light fixtures, or appliances may
be connected to a single circuit. Current enters a circuit loop on hot wires and returns along
neutral wires. These wires are color coded for easy identification. Hot wires are black or red,
and neutral wires are white or light gray. For safety, all modern circuits include a bare copper or
green insulated grounding wire. The grounding wire conducts current in the event of a ground
fault and helps reduce the chance of severe electrical shock. The service panel also has a
bonding wire connected to a metal water pipe and a grounding wire connected to a metal
grounding rod, buried underground, or to another type of grounding electrode. If a circuit
carries too much current, it can overload. A fuse or a circuit breaker protects each circuit in
case of overloads. Current returns to the service panel along a neutral circuit wire. Current then
leaves the house.

Electricity always seeks to return to its source and complete a continuous circuit. Contrary
to popular belief, electricity will take all available return paths to its source, not just the path of
lowest resistance. In a household wiring system, this return path is provided by white neutral
wires that return current to the main service panel. From the service panel, current returns
along the uninsulated neutral service wire to a power pole transformer.

Grounding connects the home’s electrical system to the earth. Grounding’s primary purpose is
to help stabilize voltage fluctuations caused by lightning and other problems in the electrical
grid. Grounding also provides a secondary return path for electricity in case there is a problem
in the normal return path. Grounding is accomplished by connecting a wire between the main
service panel and a grounding electrode. The most common grounding electrode is a buried
copper‑coated steel rod. Other grounding electrodes include reinforcing steel in the footing,
called a ufer ground. Grounding of the home electrical system is accomplished by connecting
the household electrical system to the metal water service pipe, if any, between your house
and the street and to another grounding electrode such as metal grounding electrodes that are
buried in the earth.

Service Entrance
This is the portion of the supply conductors which extends from the street main duct to the
switchboard of the building supply which comprises the conductor and equipment for
delivering energy from the electricity supply system to the wiring system of the premises
served. Service entrances could be either an overhead service or an underground service
depending on how it is installed as shown in the figures below.
Overhead Service Entrance

Underground Service Entrance

Electric Meter
This measures the amount of electrical consumption in a building. Sample images of various
electric meters are shown below. Can you try reading the electrical consumption for each
meter?
Typical Electric Meter (Analog)

Digital Electric Meter

Feeder
This refers to all circuit conductors between the service equipment/entrance and the final
branch circuit overcurrent device. Main feeders extends its interior wiring from the service
switch to the main distribution center or electric service equipment.

5.2.1. Basic Load Computation for Lighting and Small Appliances

Based on the lighting layout and the power layout as part of the electrical component of a
technical plan, we'll determine the appropriate materials to be installed for the required
electrical system.
Let's deduce the process of basic load computation into the following:
•
1. Calculate the total current load of a circuit
2. Determine the appropriate size of conductor wire
3. Determine the appropriate size of conduit pipe
4. Determine the size or rating of the overcurrent protective device

Basic Load Computation for Lighting

Let's try to calculate the basic load computation based from the sample lighting layout as
shown below. Assume that ten lighting outlets are connected to Circuit 1 while the remaining
lighting outlets are connected to Circuit 2. Use a TW type conductor wire for all circuits.

The lighting layout shows the arrangement of various lighting fixtures, its corresponding
switches, and their wiring connections in a circuit. Based on the sample lighting layout, the
letter S defines the location of the light switch while its subscript number defines the number of
light switches are in the switch panel.

Step 1: Calculate the total current load of a circuit

Prior calculating the current load, determine the number of lighting outlets installed in the
circuit. Based on the sample plan, Circuit 1 has ten lighting outlets. According to the National
Electrical Code, 100 watts shall be the maximum load for each household lighting outlet. Hence,
multiplying 100 watts by the number of lighting outlets which is ten gives us 1000 watts. To
obtain the current load, divide the current load by the voltage. According to the provisions in
the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC), the standard nominal voltage is 230V for residential
services. Hence, dividing the previously obtained 1000 watts by 230V gives us 4.35 amperes.

Step 2: Determine the appropriate size of conductor wire

Using the previously calculated current load of 4.35 amperes, let's compare it with the table
provided by the PEC for its appropriate size of conductor as shown below.

Let's focus on the column which corresponds to the TW type of wire having pure copper
conductor core. For the 4.35 ampere requirement, the 2.0mm2 size wire having an ampere
capacity or ampacity of 20 amperes is appropriate. According to code, the ampere capacity or
ampacity of the connected load shall not exceed 80% of the amperage capacity of the
conductor and the overcurrent protective device. Therefore, the 4.35 ampere current load
requirement does not exceed 80% of 20 amperes which is 16 amperes.

Step 3: Determine the appropriate size of conduit pipe

Using the table as shown below, let's look for the corresponding conduit pipe size based on the
size of the conductor wire and its quantity to be encased in the pipe. For lighting, let's surmise
that three pieces of wires shall be used for its circuit connections. It was obtained that the
appropriate size of conductor wire is 2.0mm2 which is equivalent to the #14 wire based on the
AWG standards. Hence, we shall use 13mm diameter as the appropriate minimum size of
conduit pipe.

Retrieved from the book Electrical Layout and Estimate by Max Fajardo

Step 4: Determine the size or rating of the overcurrent protective device

Using the table as shown below, let's look for the appropriate fuse or circuit breaker rating
based on the identified size of conductor wire which is 2.3mm2 or #14 AWG conductor wire
having an ampere capacity or ampacity of 20 amperes. Under the column for fuse and breaker
rating, the 20 amperes fuse or circuit breaker can safely carry a maximum load of 16 amperes
which is the 80% of the 20 amperes load permitted by the code on 2.0mm2 or #14 AWG
conductor wire. According to code, the ampere capacity or ampacity of the connected load
shall not exceed 80% of the amperage capacity of the conductor and the overcurrent protective
device.
 Retrieved from the book Electrical Layout and Estimate by Max Fajardo

Basic Load Computation for Small Appliance

Let's try to calculate the basic load computation based from the sample power layout as shown
below. Based on the plan, there are six convenience outlets that are connected to Circuit 3
while the remaining convenience outlets are connected to Circuit 4. Use a two-gang outlet for
all convenience outlets and a TW type conductor wire for all circuits.

The power layout shows the arrangement of various convenience outlets in a circuit. Based on
the sample power layout, the circle with two short parallel lines in its center defines the
location of the convenience outlets.

Step 1: Calculate the total current load of a circuit

Prior calculating the current load, determine the number of convenience outlets installed in the
circuit. Based on the sample plan, Circuit 3 has six convenience outlets wherein each outlet has
a two-gang outlet which means that there are two electrical outlets in it. According to the
Philippine Electrical Code, receptacle outlets shall be calculated at not less than 180 watts for
each single or for each multiple receptacle on one yoke.

Retrieved from Retrieved from https://www.electrical-

http://electricalmedasuo.blogspot.com/2017/09/ele contractor.net/BCodes/receptacle_yoke.jpg (Links to
ctrical-yoke-definition.html (Links to an external site.) an external site.)
Hence, multiplying 180 watts by six which is the number of convenience outlets connected in
Circuit 3 and also by two since each convenience outlet is a two-gang outlet gives us 2160
watts. To obtain the current load, divide the current load by the voltage. According to the
provisions in the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC), the standard nominal voltage is 230V for
residential services. Hence, dividing the previously obtained 1000 watts by 230V gives us 9.39
amperes.

Step 2: Determine the appropriate size of conductor wire

Using the previously calculated current load of 9.39 amperes, let's compare it with the table
provided by the PEC for its appropriate size of conductor as shown below.
Let's focus on the column which corresponds to the TW type of wire having pure copper
conductor core. Although the 2.0mm2 size wire having an ampere capacity or ampacity of 20
amperes could safely carry the 9.39 ampere current load, we cannot do so because the Code
specifically mandated the use of 3.5mm2 or #12 AWG conductor wire as the minimum size for
all types of convenience outlet wiring except for an appliance with limited load wherein a
2.0mm2 or #14 AWG conductor wire is permitted. Hence, we shall use 3.5mm2 as the size of the
conductor wire. According to code, the ampere capacity or ampacity of the connected load
shall not exceed 80% of the amperage capacity of the conductor and the overcurrent protective
device. Therefore, the 9.39 ampere current load requirement does not exceed 80% of 25
amperes which is 20 amperes.

Step 3: Determine the appropriate size of conduit pipe

Using the table as shown below, let's look for the corresponding conduit pipe size based on the
size of the conductor wire and its quantity to be encased in the pipe. For the power plan, let's
surmise that two pieces of wires shall be used for its circuit connections. It was obtained that
the appropriate size of conductor wire is 3.5mm2 which is equivalent to the #12 wire based on
the AWG standards. Hence, we shall use 13mm diameter as the appropriate minimum size of
conduit pipe.

Retrieved from the book Electrical Layout and Estimate by Max Fajardo

Step 4: Determine the size or rating of the overcurrent protective device

Using the table as shown below, let's look for the appropriate fuse or circuit breaker rating
based on the identified size of conductor wire which is 3.5mm2 or #12 AWG conductor wire
having an ampere capacity or ampacity of 25 amperes. Under the column for fuse and breaker
rating, the 30 amperes fuse or circuit breaker can safely carry a maximum load of 20 amperes
which is the 80% of the 25 amperes load permitted by the code on 3.5mm2 or #12 AWG
conductor wire.

Retrieved from the book Electrical Layout and Estimate by Max Fajardo
5.2.3. Service Entrance
We've previously discussed electrical circuits, including the determination of various materials
required for a certain branch circuit. Before the electricity goes into various circuits inside a
structure, it passes through a service entrance. A service entrance is the portion of the supply
conductors which extends from the street main duct to the switchboard of the building supply
which comprises the conductor and equipment for delivering energy from the electricity supply
system to the wiring system of the premises served. Service entrances could be either an
overhead service or an underground service depending on how it is installed as shown in the
figures below.
Overhead Service Entrance

Underground Service Entrance

Basic Service Entrance Computation

Let's try to calculate the basic service entrance based from the data given. Use a TW type
conductor wire for all circuits.

Step 1: Calculate the total current load of a circuit

Let's determine the total current load of all circuits in the building. For the first part, exclude
the air-conditioner loads in the sum since we need to provide certain factors for the air-
conditioner loads. Hence let's assume:

Circuit Receptacles Total Load (watts)

1 10 1000
Lighting
2 5 900

3 12 2160
Small Appliance
4 12 2160
Range 5 1 8000
Water Heater 6 1 2500
 Total: 16720 watts
Let's apply demand factor for a dwelling unit using the table provided below. Given that 100%
demand factor shall be given for the first 10000 watts of the loads other than for large-space
heating or cooling, then the remaining load shall be applied with 40% demand factor.

Hence, applying 100% for the first 10kW load gives us the same load of 10kW or 10000 watts.
Deducting 10kW from the 16720 watts gives us 6720 watts. Applying 40% for the 6720 watts
remaining load gives us 2688 watts.

Given that there are two circuits which are dedicated for each 1.5hp air-conditioner connected
to each circuits, we have 1119 watts for each circuit. Applying 100% demand factor for air-
conditioner loads based from the table above, we have 2238 watts.
Summing up the initial 10000 watts load, the 2688 watts from the remaining load in excess of
the 10kW applied with 40% demand factor, and the 2238 watts from the air-conditioner load,
gives us 14926 watts. From this calculated value, we still need to add 25% of the largest motor
load among all connected electrical equipment. Hence, adding 25% of the 1119 watts load of an
air-conditioner to the previously calculated 14926 watts, gives us 15205.75 watts.

Let's calculate the current load by dividing the current load by the voltage. According to the
provisions in the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC), the standard nominal voltage is 230V for
residential services. Hence, dividing 15205.75 watts by 230V gives us 66.11 amperes.

Step 2: Determine the appropriate size of conductor wires: main feeder and neutral
line
Using the previously calculated current load of 66.11 amperes, let's compare it with the table
provided by the PEC for its appropriate size of conductor wire as shown below.

Let's focus on the column which corresponds to the TW type of wire having pure copper
conductor core. For the 66.11 ampere requirement, the 38.0mm2 TW wire having an ampere
capacity or ampacity of 100 amperes is appropriate. According to code, if the computed load
exceeds 10000 watts, the conductor and the overcurrent protection shall be rated not less than
100 amperes.
For the neutral conductors, it is stated in the code that neutral conductors shall have an
ampacity of not less than 70% of the ungrounded (live wire) conductor or two trade size smaller
than the ungrounded conductor. Given these two conditions, let's determine the sizes of wires
for each condition. For the first one that is less than 70% of the ampacity of the conductor wire
(main feeder), it is taken as 70 amperes since 70% of the 100 amperes capacity of the main
feeders is 70 amperes. Using 70 amperes, we shall use 22mm2 TW wire. On the other hand, two
trade size smaller than the 38mm2 TW conductor wire (main feeder) gives us 22mm2 TW wire
based from the table on conductor wire sizes. Since the ampacity of the neutral wire should
not be less than either of these two conditions, and both conditions came up with the same
conductor size, we shall use 2 pieces 38mm2 TW wire for the main feeder and one piece 22mm2
TW wire for the neutral line both for the service entrance.

Step 3: Determine the appropriate size of conduit pipe

Using the table as shown below, let's look for the corresponding conduit pipe size based on the
size of the conductor wire and its quantity to be encased in the pipe. For the service entrance,
we'll use three pieces of wire for its main feeders and neutral line. It was obtained that the
appropriate size for two main feeders is 38.0mm2 while the appropriate size of one neutral line
is 22.0mm2. Using the larger size wire and three pieces of wire, we shall use 32mm diameter as
the appropriate minimum size of conduit pipe.

Retrieved from the book Electrical Layout and Estimate by Max Fajardo

Step 4: Determine the size or rating of the overcurrent protective device

Using the table as shown below, let's look for the appropriate fuse or circuit breaker rating
based on the code provision which states that if the computed load exceeds 10000 watts, the
conductor and the overcurrent protection shall be rated not less than 100 amperes. Hence, use
two pieces 100 amperes fuse or circuit breaker.

Retrieved from the book Electrical Layout and Estimate by Max Fajardo

Load Schedule
Based from all calculated components of circuits, let's tabulate the results as shown in a sample
below:

Retrieved from the book Electrical Layout and Estimate by Max Fajardo
The load schedule shown above contains various components such as the circuit number and
the type of loads connected to it i.e. lighting, small appliances; number of outlets connected in
a circuit; its total load in watts and its corresponding current load requirement; the size of
conductor wire, its conduit pipe, and the overcurrent protective device rating. Shown at the
bottom portion of the table are the service entrance details.

Single-line Diagram
A single-line diagram is a graphical presentation of the major electrical components showing
the spatial relations between electrical components represented by electrical symbols. It
typically depicts how electricity enters a structure from its service entrance to its circuits as
represented by how they are connected in a panel box as shown in the samples below.

Retrieved from the book Electrical Layout and Estimate by Max Fajardo

5.3. Wiring Tools and Safety

Wiring Tools
There are various tools which are used in installing and repairing electrical circuits in a building.
The only way you can possibly manage home wiring projects safely is to understand how
electricity works and how it is delivered from the street to the outlets in your home. To
complete these wiring projects, you need a few specialty electrical tools as well as a collection
of basic hand tools. As with any tool purchase, invest in quality products when you buy tools for
electrical work. Keep your tools clean, and sharpen or replace any cutting tools that have dull
edges. Some of these tools are shown in the samples below.

A fish tape is useful for installing cables in

finished wall cavities and for pulling wires
through conduit. Products designed for
lubrication reduce friction and make it
easier to pull cables and wires.
Use a tool belt to keep frequently used tools
within easy reach. Electrical tapes in a variety
 of colors are used for marking wires and for
attaching cables to a fish tape.

Wiring Safety
Safety should be the primary concern of anyone working with electricity. Although most
household electrical repairs are simple and straightforward, always use caution and good
judgment when working with electrical wiring or devices. Common sense can prevent
accidents. The basic rule of electrical safety is: Always turn off power to the area or device you
are working on. At the main service panel, remove the fuse or shut off the circuit breaker that
controls the circuit you are servicing. Then check to make sure the power is off by testing for
power with a voltage tester. TIP: Test a live circuit with the voltage tester to verify that it is
working before you rely on it. Restore power only when the repair or replacement project is
complete. Follow the safety tips shown on these pages. Never attempt an electrical project
beyond your skill or confidence level.
Shut power off at the main service panel or
subpanel where the circuit originates before
beginning any work
Create a circuit index and affix it to the inside
of the door to your main service panel.
Update it as needed.
 Wear rubber-soled shoes while working on
electrical projects. On damp floors, stand on a
rubber mat or dry wooden boards.

Use fiberglass or wood ladders when making

routine household repairs near the service
mast.

Extension cords are for temporary use only.

Cords must be rated for the intended usage.
 Breakers and fuses must be compatible with
the panel manufacturer and match the circuit
capacity.

Never alter the prongs of a plug to fit a

receptacle. If possible, install a new grounded
receptacle.

Do not penetrate walls or ceilings without

first shutting off electrical power to the
circuits that may be hidden.