I am uncertain if it is necessary to use 20 amp recepticals on 20 amp branch circuits or if 15 amp recepticals and switches are permitted. I often see branch circuits wired this way but it seems somewhat risky to do so. I have not been able to find where this is addressed in the NEC. Can any one shed some light on this for me?
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Replies
I have not been able to find where this is addressed in the NEC.
210-21
you can us a 15 on 20 circuit if the wire is 12 gauge, you cannot use 20 on 15, But here where it gets good. The inspector not going let you. 20 on 20 and 15 on 15. They are usually only couple pennies more.
There is one requirement to use 15 amp receptacles on a 20 amp circuit.
You have to have more than one receptacle. And the common duplex counts for 2 receptacles.
Also note that the 15 amp receptacles are rated for 20 amp feed through.
Feed through???
Yes, feed through.You can use the screw terminals on receptacles or the back wire (not back stab) terminals on 15 amp receptacels to feed the circuit to the next load. Thus the terminals are rated for 20 amp feed through as they can be used on 20 amp circuit.The samething holds for 15 GFCI receptacles. There you will see it stamped on the device."20 amp feed through, 15 amp receptacle" or something similar.
So you don't subscribe to "Pig tail" use ?
"So you don't subscribe to "Pig tail" use ?"I did not say that.I described how the receptacles are designed.I like the idea of pigtails. But if I am replace a receptacle in an old, often undersized, box I will use the receptacle as a feed through if appropriate.
You can use the screw terminals on receptacles or the back wire (not back stab) terminals on 15 amp receptacels to feed the circuit to the next load. Thus the terminals are rated for 20 amp feed through as they can be used on 20 amp circuit.
Unless, of course, it's on a MWBC (but that's a different discussion). ;)
"Unless, of course, it's on a MWBC (but that's a different discussion). ;)"Minnesota Wisconsin Baptist Convention
Montana Wheat & Barley Committee
Missouri Women's Business Center.
Millard West Booster Club
Merrymeeting Wheelers Bicycle ClubOr is that the wacky boxless devices used on mobile homes?
Multi Wire Branch Circuit
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If there is more than one outlet - this requirement would be met with a single duplex device- the NEC specifically allows placing 15 amp receptacles on a 20 amp circuit.
See NEC 210.21(B)(3).