Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC ) Electrical Practice Test

Is it possible to split a 240 volt, 3 wire circuit into two 120 volt circuits?

1. True

2. False

3. Only in a parallel configuration

4. Only in a series configuration

The correct answer is: True

Splitting a 240-volt, 3-wire circuit into two 120-volt circuits is indeed possible, and the correct answer reflects that understanding. This scenario typically involves utilizing a 240-volt circuit that consists of two hot wires and a ground wire. In this setup, the two hot wires are on opposite phases of the electrical system. When splitting this circuit, each hot wire can provide 120 volts relative to the neutral or ground, effectively creating two separate 120-volt circuits. This configuration is often employed in residential wiring, where a 240-volt supply can be divided to feed multiple 120-volt appliances or outlets. It's important to ensure that the split is done safely, following appropriate electrical codes and regulations to avoid issues such as circuit overloads or improper grounding. Proper labeling and circuit protection must also be maintained to safeguard the electrical system and the connected devices.