What is the typical voltage for residential electrical systems in North America?

The typical voltage for residential electrical systems in North America is 120/240 volts. In residential settings, the standard practice is to supply electrical power at 120 volts for most household appliances and lighting, while larger appliances such as dryers and ovens often require 240 volts. This dual-voltage system allows for flexibility in household electrical usage, as it can accommodate a wide range of devices with varying power requirements.

The 120 volts is derived from a split-phase system, where two 120-volt wires are used, allowing the combination to effectively provide 240 volts for high-demand appliances. This configuration is prevalent in homes, ensuring that both regular and high-power electrical needs can be satisfactorily met.

The other voltage choices do not reflect common residential standards. For instance, 60 volts is not a standard residential voltage in North America, and voltages like 480 volts are typically used for commercial or industrial applications rather than residences. Similarly, while 240 volts does appear in the residential context, it is not typically used alone without the accompanying 120 volts for various applications in homes.