Breaker Size Calculator.

Find the right breaker size with our breaker size calculator.

Current Draw

18.75 A

Recommended Breaker

25 A

Load Type

Continuous

Frequently asked questions.

What size breaker do I need?

Breaker size depends on load amps and whether it's continuous. The calculator shows the recommended size — enter watts, voltage, and load type.

How do I calculate breaker size?

Watts ÷ Voltage = Amps. For continuous: Amps × 1.25. Round up to standard size. The calculator does all three steps automatically.

Can a breaker be too large?

Yes — an oversized breaker won't protect the wiring. Always match breaker size to wire ampacity per NEC.

What breaker is needed for 240V?

Depends on load, not voltage. For 4500W at 240V continuous: 18.75A × 1.25 = 23.4A → 25A breaker.

What breaker is needed for an EV charger?

48A charger needs 60A breaker. 32A needs 40A. Use the calculator with your charger's power rating in watts.

What is the 80% breaker rule?

Continuous loads (3+ hours) should not exceed 80% of breaker rating. A 20A breaker handles 16A max continuous.

How do continuous loads affect breaker sizing?

Continuous loads require 125% sizing. Set "Continuous Load? = Yes" in the calculator and it applies the multiplier automatically.

Can I use a smaller breaker?

No — using a smaller breaker causes nuisance tripping. Always use the correct NEC-rated size.

How do I convert watts to breaker size?

Enter watts and voltage in the calculator above. It converts to amps, applies the 125% rule for continuous loads, and shows the breaker.

How is breaker capacity determined?

Breaker capacity must protect the wiring based on load amperage, continuous duty, and NEC standards. The calculator ensures code-compliant sizing.

How we calculate this.

Methodology

Current is computed as Amps = Watts ÷ Voltage. For continuous loads, the NEC 125% rule is applied: Breaker = Amps × 1.25, rounded up to the nearest standard breaker size (15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 300, 350, 400A).

Assumptions

  • Standard voltages: 120V, 208V, 240V, 480V
  • Continuous loads defined as 3+ hours per NEC
  • Standard breaker sizes per NEC Table 240.6(A)
  • Breaker must also match wire ampacity
Reviewed by ChargerLoad Editorial Team