Journeyman electrician (Texas) Journeyman Electrician full analysis: what the $39 report shows

A real question from the full analysis

This is how each question you miss appears in the report. The question, the right answer, the explanation and the source are real. The answer shown as yours is an example, not anyone's data.

Which load is a continuous load under the NEC definition?

• A Parking lot lighting that stays on for 10 hours each night
• B A compressor that runs 40 minutes out of each hour
• C A shop welder used for 20-minute jobs
• D A drill press used on and off during the day

Example answer, marked sure: B · Correct answer: A

A is correct. NEC Article 100 defines a continuous load as one where the maximum current is expected to continue for 3 hours or more. Lighting that runs all night meets that test, so the circuit must be sized for 125 percent of that load. B is wrong: A cycling compressor does not hold maximum current for 3 hours. C is wrong: Welding jobs of 20 minutes are well under the 3-hour mark. D is wrong: Intermittent drill press use is not sustained. Rule to remember: Continuous means 3 hours or more at maximum current.

Readiness by domain uses the weights of the real exam: Definitions, Calculations, Theory, and Plans 7.5%, Electrical Services, Service Equipment, and Separately Derived Systems 11.2%, Electrical Feeders 3.8%, Branch Circuit Calculations and Conductors 18.8%, Electrical Wiring Methods and Electrical Materials 22.5%, Electrical Equipment and Devices 12.5%, Motors and Generators 6.2%, Electrical Control Devices and Disconnecting Means 3.8%, Special Occupancies, Equipment, and Conditions 11.2%, Renewable Energy Technologies 2.5%.