Given a #3 copper wire and a 100 amp breaker, what is the service amperage to report?

In this scenario, a #3 copper wire is being evaluated in conjunction with a 100 amp breaker. The service amperage that is reported corresponds to the rating of the breaker, which is designed to protect the electrical circuit from overload or short circuit conditions.

When determining service amperage, it is essential to note that the breaker size indicates the maximum current that can safely be carried by the circuit without tripping. In this case, since the breaker is rated for 100 amps, the service amperage is reported as 100 amps. This indicates that the circuit can handle that level of current safely, aligning with the breaker’s specifications and the wire's capacity.

It's also crucial to remember that while the wire size does have limitations regarding its current-carrying capacity, the breaker fundamentally governs the operational limit of the circuit. Therefore, the reported service amperage accurately reflects the breaker’s rating, which is a critical aspect when assessing overall electrical system safety and efficacy.