View Full Version : New wiring
david111
Jun 28, 2011, 02:51 PM
I just wire 4 new outlets in my basement room. I use 14 wire and 15 amp outlet.When I went to hook on to the outlet that was there.I found out that the outlet was on a 20amp breaker.Can I just change the 20amp breaker to a 15amp breaker.thank Dave
hkstroud
Jun 28, 2011, 02:58 PM
Yes.
stanfortyman
Jun 28, 2011, 03:01 PM
Kind of a shame to reduce the circuit to 15A due to the smaller wire, but you have no choice.
Why not run #12 and keep the 20A circuit?
ma0641
Jun 28, 2011, 03:03 PM
Yes, you can downsize but you will have reduced capacity, about 600 watts. How hard would it be to go back with 12 AWG. What is the AWG of the wire you are trying to connect with, 12 or 14?
ma0641
Jun 28, 2011, 03:04 PM
WOW, 3 of the same answers in 5 minutes! Way to go guys!
ballengerb1
Jun 28, 2011, 04:30 PM
Check to see if you have any 20 amp receptacles, different than 15 amp, if you do then swap them out too.
Kyle_in_rure
Jun 28, 2011, 05:39 PM
Yes, you can, as long as you don't think you'll need more power in the future.