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    lildebbie61's Avatar
    lildebbie61 Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Jan 25, 2007, 10:11 AM
    20 amp recpt. On a 15 amp breaker
    Do I need to replace my breaker to a 20 amp? I have electric heaters that heat up my recpt and plugs an heaters what sshould I do?:confused: :confused:
    labman's Avatar
    labman Posts: 10,580, Reputation: 551
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    #2

    Jan 25, 2007, 10:17 AM
    If the wires feeding the receptacle are 14 gauge, you need to either replace them with 12 gauge, switch to a smaller heater, or find a 20 amp circuit to plug it in. Just replacing the breaker could burn the house down.
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #3

    Jan 25, 2007, 10:24 AM
    Labman is absolutely correct about not just changing a breaker to a higher amp rating without knowing what size wire there is.

    If you let us know what the wattage is of each heater, and the quantity, we can determine what size circuit is needed.

    Reason is that maybe the circuit is of sufficient size but the receptacles may be a bit old or worn, and that can also create the heat you feel at the receptacle and plug.

    In any case best to shut these heaters down and stop using them, the heat at the outlets will only make things worse, and maybe quickly.
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