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15 or 20 amp?

LOSVEC's picture

15 or 20 amp? (post #205812)

LOSVEC on Fri, 02/17/2012 - 12:57
in

I would like to replace all switches and receptacles in my house. Now my breakers are 20 amp but the old switches and receptacles are 15 amp. so my question is do I stay with the 15 amp or go up to 20 amp to match the breakers? Thank you for your replies.

-A +A

Size of wire and type is what matters (post #205812, reply #1 of 3)

by stormando in reply to LOSVEC [original] on Fri, 02/17/2012 - 15:58

14 gauge stick w/ 15 amp breaker.  12 gauge use 20 amp breaker  based on COPPER wire. if unusual long runs from panel or aluminum get electritian.  My 2 cents opinion only

The code allows 15a (post #205812, reply #2 of 3)

by gfretwell in reply to LOSVEC [original] on Fri, 02/17/2012 - 18:09

The code allows 15a receptacles on 20a circuits as long as there is more than one. The assumption is that you probably don't have any 20a equipment anyway. (NEMA 5-20 plug)

Yeah, the switches and (post #205812, reply #3 of 3)

by DanH in reply to LOSVEC [original] on Fri, 02/17/2012 - 19:11

Yeah, the switches and recptacles may be rated for 15A.  This (in most cases) is fine on a 20A circuit.  It's basically only the wire that must be sized to handle the entire 20A.


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