Is it OK to put a 20 amp outlet on a 15 amp circuit?
Is it OK to put a 20 amp outlet on a 15 amp circuit?
Electrical plugs designated as 20-amp will not fit into 15-amp outlets. A 20-amp circuit, protected by a 20-amp breaker or fuse, must be served by 12-gauge or 10-gauge wire.
What are 20 amp breakers used for?
The 15-amp and 20-amp are all-purpose breakers, running everything from lights and outlets to garage-door openers.
How many watts of light can you safely use on a single 20 amp electrical service?
A 20-amp breaker can support up to 2,400 watts on a single circuit. The safe maximum for a 20-amp circuit is 1,920 watts, but circuits should not be loaded to more than 80 percent of their maximum capacity.
What gauge wire is needed for a 20 amp circuit?
12-gauge
Why Wire Gauge Is Important
| Wire Use | Rated Ampacity | Wire Gauge |
|---|---|---|
| Low-voltage lighting and lamp cords | 10 amps | 18-gauge |
| Extension cords (light-duty) | 13 amps | 16-gauge |
| Light fixtures, lamps, lighting circuits | 15 amps | 14-gauge |
| Kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor receptacles (outlets); 120-volt air conditioners | 20 amps | 12-gauge |
Should bathroom outlets be 15 or 20 amp?
Kitchens and bathrooms should always have 20 amp gfci outlets. However, you must be using number 12 wire for 20 amp gfci or regular outlets If your wiring is number 14 guage then use a 15 amp. So, the wire size and breaker size together should be rated for 20 amps!
Should I use 15 or 20 amp outlets?
Standard 15-amp receptacles are suitable for typical household appliances, lamps and other accessories. A 20-amp receptacle is for heavy-duty appliances and power tools, such as air compressors. Residential garages occasionally have 20-amp receptacles to accommodate larger power tools.
Does a refrigerator need a 20 amp outlet?
Refrigerator Circuit A modern refrigerator requires a dedicated 20-amp, 120/125-volt circuit. You may currently have a smaller refrigerator plugged into a general lighting circuit, but during any major remodeling, a dedicated 120/125-volt circuit for the refrigerator should be installed.
Do bathrooms need 20 amp?
The NEC requires that all outlet receptacles in a bathroom be GFCI protected. Outlet circuit must be 20 amps: The outlets in a bathroom should be served by a 20-amp circuit, separate from the lighting circuit, to provide power items such as curling irons, razors, and hairdryers.