Calculation Lessons

The questions that sink people on the SP-PH exam are the calculations — box fill, motor sizing, load calcs. Each lesson below walks a real problem step by step, showing the NEC table or rule used at every line so you can repeat it on exam day.

How to use these: don't just read — work each example with your own tabbed 2020 NEC open. The goal is to know exactly which table to flip to and what to multiply, fast.

Box Fill

Count conductors, devices, clamps, and grounds; pick a box that's big enough. Table 314.16.

Motor Sizing

FLC tables, 125% conductors, overload, branch protection, and disconnect. Article 430.

Dwelling Load Calc

Standard service calculation from square footage to service amps. Article 220.

Conductor Ampacity & Derating

Table 310.16, the 60/75/90°C termination rule, ambient and bundling adjustments.

Voltage Drop & Ohm's Law

V=IR, power, and the voltage-drop formula with a worked branch-circuit example.

Then test yourself

The practice exam has dedicated calculation questions in every topic.

Go to the Practice Exam →