answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

Yes as long as the load is compatible with the wiring size and breaker protecting the circuit. Usually the lighting and outlets are separate just as a best practice, and new work may require separation depending on the locale.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

JudyJudy
Simplicity is my specialty.
Chat with Judy
ReneRene
Change my mind. I dare you.
Chat with Rene
EzraEzra
Faith is not about having all the answers, but learning to ask the right questions.
Chat with Ezra
More answers
User Avatar

AnswerBot

9mo ago

Yes, lights and outlets can be on the same circuit in a residential electrical system. However, it is important to consult local electrical codes that may have specific requirements for the number of outlets and lights that can be on a circuit for safety and compliance reasons.

User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

10y ago

You can certainly do this if you obey certain rules and many older homes might have evolved in this way. this is not to say that this is condoned by the electric code. You need to make sure that the wiring and devices are consistent for the amperage of the breaker. For example lighting circuits would typically use 14 AWG while a 20 Amp outlet would use 12 AWG. You wouldn't want to run 14 AWG to a light from an outlet protected by a 20 A breaker. Also the internal wiring in lamp should match the current rating of the protecting breaker. Hence, the norm would be to separate the two different types of circuits.
You can, but usually don't. You are more likely to trip a breaker by plugging something into an outlet. If the lights are on the same circuit, you can be left in the dark. Also, depending on what is in the outlet, the lights will dim slightly when you use it. I don't know current codes and yours may vary. It used to be 10 outlets or lights on a circuit using 12/2 wire and a 20 amp. breaker. That's old information and may no longer be correct.

User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

Yes, up to a combination of 12 devices. Devices include receptacles, switches and light outlets. Each outlet box counts as one device

User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago

Yes. Most homes have at least 1 outlet on a switch for lamps and Christmas trees

User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Can Lights and outlets be on the same circuit?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Continue Learning about Natural Sciences

If a 1950 era house has 10 gauge wiring for lights and outlets can you safely extend wiring with 12-2 for additional lights and outlets?

Mixing different gauge wires in the same circuit is not recommended as it can lead to electrical hazards. It is better to use the same gauge wire throughout the circuit to maintain consistency in the electrical load. If you're adding new lights and outlets, it's best to use the same gauge wire as the existing one.


Can the outlets in a circuit be arranged in different groupings to obtain the same result Why?

Yes, the outlets in a circuit can be arranged in different groupings to obtain the same result because the total load on the circuit remains the same regardless of how the outlets are grouped. As long as the total current draw does not exceed the circuit's capacity, changing the grouping of outlets will not affect the overall functionality.


Can you put 4 - 32 watt 48 inch fluorescent lights and 8 outlets on 1 - 20 amp breaker?

It is generally not recommended to have both lights and outlets on the same circuit, as it can easily overload the circuit. It is best practice to have dedicated circuits for lighting and outlets to ensure safety and prevent tripping breakers. Consider installing a separate circuit for the fluorescent lights and another for the outlets.


What are the parts of the common household circuit?

A common household circuit consists of a breaker, wiring, outlets, and switches. The breaker protects the circuit from overloading, the wiring carries the electricity to the outlets and switches, and the outlets provide the connection for devices to receive power. The switches control the flow of electricity to the outlets or lights.


How many recessed lights can you put on a 20 Amp circuit breaker?

As a general guideline, you can typically install about 10-12 LED recessed lights on a 20 Amp circuit breaker. However, the exact number may vary depending on the wattage of the lights and any other devices connected to the circuit. It's recommended to consult with a licensed electrician to ensure proper installation and avoid overloading the circuit.

Related questions

Are the lights and outlets in this room connected to the same circuit?

To determine if the lights and outlets in a room are connected to the same circuit, you can check the circuit breaker panel. If the lights and outlets are on the same circuit, flipping the breaker for that circuit will turn off both the lights and outlets. If they are on separate circuits, turning off the breaker for the lights will only affect the lights, and the outlets will still have power.


How can I wire outlets and lights on the same circuit?

To wire outlets and lights on the same circuit, you can connect them to the same electrical circuit breaker. Run the wiring from the breaker to the outlets and lights, making sure to follow proper electrical codes and safety precautions. Use separate wires for the outlets and lights, and connect them to the appropriate terminals on the outlets and light fixtures. It is recommended to consult a licensed electrician for guidance and to ensure the wiring is done correctly and safely.


How can I wire lights and outlets on the same circuit?

To wire lights and outlets on the same circuit, you can connect them to the same electrical circuit breaker. Make sure to follow local building codes and safety guidelines when doing electrical work. It is recommended to consult a licensed electrician for proper installation.


How can I wire multiple outlets and lights on the same circuit?

To wire multiple outlets and lights on the same circuit, you can connect them in parallel using a junction box. Run a main wire from the circuit breaker to the first outlet, then connect additional outlets and lights in parallel to the first one. Make sure to follow local electrical codes and use proper wiring techniques to ensure safety.


If a 1950 era house has 10 gauge wiring for lights and outlets can you safely extend wiring with 12-2 for additional lights and outlets?

Mixing different gauge wires in the same circuit is not recommended as it can lead to electrical hazards. It is better to use the same gauge wire throughout the circuit to maintain consistency in the electrical load. If you're adding new lights and outlets, it's best to use the same gauge wire as the existing one.


Can the outlets in a circuit be arranged in different groupings to obtain the same result Why?

Yes, the outlets in a circuit can be arranged in different groupings to obtain the same result because the total load on the circuit remains the same regardless of how the outlets are grouped. As long as the total current draw does not exceed the circuit's capacity, changing the grouping of outlets will not affect the overall functionality.


Can the power to your whirlpool be on the same 20 amp circuit as the bathroom lights and outlets?

No, the whirlpool has a motor load connected to it and should be connected to a dedicated ground fault breaker.


How many wall outlets can you have in a circuit using a A breaker?

Assuming this is not an office of a place where lots of the outlets will be used to power items that draw lots of current on a 15 amp circuit wired with 14/2 wire I would limit it to no more than 10 outlets and lights combined. On a 20 amp circuit wired with 12/2 wire I would limit it to a 14 outlets and lights combined. There is no limit in the code. You just use common sense based on what is going to be used on this circuit.


How can I wire a room with lights and outlets?

To wire a room with lights and outlets, you will need to plan the layout, install electrical boxes, run wires from the circuit breaker to the outlets and lights, connect the wires to the outlets and light fixtures, and test the connections to ensure they are working properly. It is recommended to consult a licensed electrician for safety and compliance with building codes.


Can you put 4 - 32 watt 48 inch fluorescent lights and 8 outlets on 1 - 20 amp breaker?

It is generally not recommended to have both lights and outlets on the same circuit, as it can easily overload the circuit. It is best practice to have dedicated circuits for lighting and outlets to ensure safety and prevent tripping breakers. Consider installing a separate circuit for the fluorescent lights and another for the outlets.


Can two GFCI outlets be installed on the same circuit?

Yes, two GFCI outlets can be installed on the same circuit. However, it is important to ensure that they are wired correctly to avoid any issues with tripping or malfunctioning.


Is the number plate light on the same circuit as the head lights?

The number plate light is usually on the same circuit as the head lights.