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    jimboroof's Avatar
    jimboroof Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Dec 20, 2009, 08:17 PM
    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?
    KISS's Avatar
    KISS Posts: 12,510, Reputation: 839
    Uber Member
    		  
    #2

    Dec 20, 2009, 08:59 PM

    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.
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
    Home Repair & Remodeling Expert
    		  
    #3

    Dec 20, 2009, 09:01 PM

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