Ask Me Help Desk

Ask Me Help Desk (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/forum.php)
-   Electrical & Lighting (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=105)
-   -   15 amp or 20 amp circuit breaker does it matter? (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=426828)

  • Dec 20, 2009, 08:17 PM
    jimboroof
    15 amp or 20 amp circuit breaker does it matter?
    Does it matter what size circuit breaker I use for lights or recptacles 15 or 20?
  • Dec 20, 2009, 08:59 PM
    KISS

    14 AWG or 12 AWG wire can be protected by a 15 A breaker.

    14 AWG wire MUST be protected by a 15 A breaker.

    15 A outlets can be used on a 20 A circuit

    20 A outlets may only be used on a 20 A circuit

    12 AWG is more expensive than 14 AWG

    20 A outlets are more expensive than 15 A outlets.

    At 120 V; P (watts) = 120 * Current

    Suggest 3 conductor w/ground for switch loops. Allows timers and automation devices that require a neutral.
  • Dec 20, 2009, 09:01 PM
    ballengerb1

    15 amps using #14 wire should be enough, if you move up to 20 amps you need #12 wire and 20 amp breaker

  • All times are GMT -7. The time now is 03:38 PM.