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gec06
Sep 26, 2006, 03:56 PM
I have a single 20 amp basement outlet with a 20 amp breaker and #12 wire with ground. Can I tap into that outlet as a source of power for 8 recessed lights in that room? Can I use #14 wire to the lights from the outlet? Should I power to the light switch first from the outlet? Thanks in advance for any help on this matter.

Can #14 wire be used on a 20 amp home circuit if it is to be used only for lighting in a single room.

tkrussell
Sep 26, 2006, 05:38 PM
The entire circuit needs to be #12 wire for a 20 amp circuit, no shortcuts here.

Powering the light switch from the point closest to the panel is best, due to the load of the recess lights.

bhayne
Sep 27, 2006, 08:38 AM
I would use #14 wire and replace the 20A breaker with a 15A breaker. That would be more standard for lighting!

I would think that you would be able to find spare 15A breakers already in the panel; if not they are cheap.