What is considered the normal operating voltage range for most branch circuits in residential settings?

The standard operating voltage for most branch circuits in residential settings is 120 volts. This voltage is foundational in the United States for general lighting and receptacle circuits in homes, facilitating a wide range of household appliances, electronics, and devices.

Typically, 120 volts is derived from split-phase electrical systems in residential properties, which provide both 120-volt and 240-volt options for various needs, such as major appliances. Understanding that 120 volts is the normal operating voltage helps in recognizing which circuits are designed for everyday use rather than those reserved for higher voltage applications, such as 240 volts typically used for heavy-duty appliances like dryers and ovens.

While 60 volts, 240 volts, and 480 volts do exist in specific applications, they are not standard for residential branch circuits, making 120 volts the correct and most applicable answer for typical home wiring.