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Switching 15 amp breaker to 20 amp

Asked Apr 15, 2008, 12:08 PM — 4 Answers
I'm in a new condo built 2008. The den has six outlets, a ceiling fan box (no fan yet) on a 15 amp breaker. My question is; can I replace the 15 amp breaker with a 20 amp breaker. I have no idea what gauge wire we have.

I want to install a Reiker heating fan that draws 1485 watts with all elements running, which is only at startup. The unit was installed in my house on a dedicated 20 amp circuit before moving.

Thanks

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stanfortyman's Avatar
stanfortyman Posts: 4,897, Reputation: 1331
Electrical & Lighting Expert
  
#2

Apr 15, 2008, 01:08 PM


I am curious as to why you think you can do this on such a new house.
IF the breaker is a 15 is it so for a reason. NO, DO NOT change it to a 20.
Have an electrician come in and install a proper circuit for this heater.


BTW, what do you mean it only draws that much at "start up"? Heaters don't have surge current. And the fan is probably so small that there is no surge at all from it.
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ballengerb1's Avatar
ballengerb1 Posts: 25,644, Reputation: 11296
Home Repair & Remodeling Expert
  
#3

Apr 15, 2008, 01:45 PM
I agree, contractors match the wire gauge with the breaker when they build. They do not use 12 gauge wire required for 20 amps and then install a 15 amp breaker. Check your wiring or have a qualified person inspect what you have, likely 14 gauge. Your heater will be drawing more than 12 amps all by its lonesome. Turn on some lights or install a ceiling fan and you'll be in the dark. Just curious, why do you need a 1450 watt heater in a brand new condo?
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gymant's Avatar
gymant Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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#4

Apr 15, 2008, 03:32 PM
It's really a great way to heat up to a 20'x20' area. It was in a large very cold bathroom with 15' ceilings.

Yes, it a new condo, but my wife (can you believe) likes to crank up the heat in the am. The fan would more than satisfy. Everything is controlled remotely, when the heat first comes on, all four heating elements kick in, when the temperature reaches near the remote thermostat setting, the unit will automatically decease the number of heating elements to maintain the desired temperature. With all elements on it takes 1485 watts, I believe that I read that a 15 amp is safe at 1440 watts.
Besides the heat it's a great looking fan. I'll take your good, appreciated advise and call a electrician for a new service. Thanks for taking the time to respond.
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Stratmando's Avatar
Stratmando Posts: 10,435, Reputation: 2520
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#5

Apr 15, 2008, 05:27 PM
The Bath may already be on a 20 amp circuit, They do have 15 and 20 amp rated GFI's.
If the Wire is #12 it can be placed on a 20 amp breaker. #14 must remain on 15 amp breaker.
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