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    jeanskip's Avatar
    jeanskip Posts: 7, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Feb 10, 2010, 08:15 AM
    15 amp duplex recept on 20 amp circuit breaker
    Can you put in 15 amp outlets that has 12 gauge wire on a 20 amp circuits these are just regular household outlets not used for dryers or refrigerator. Or should I replace with 20 amp outlets.
    tableclocks's Avatar
    tableclocks Posts: 432, Reputation: 2
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    #2

    Feb 10, 2010, 08:28 AM

    Yes
    donf's Avatar
    donf Posts: 5,679, Reputation: 582
    Printers & Electronics Expert
    		  
    #3

    Feb 10, 2010, 09:43 AM

    The answer is yes you can do that.
    However, if you do that the true 20 amp circuit is not readily identified by looking at the receptacle.

    My personal choice is to always match the components a circuit:

    1) A 15 amp circuit requires a 15 amp breaker, 14/2 AWG cable and a 15 amp listed receptacle.

    1a) I can also use a 15 amp breaker with 12/2 AWG cable and a 15 amp receptacle.

    2) a 20 amp circuit will require a 20 amp breaker along with 12/2 AWG cable and either a 20 amp receptacle or a 15 amp receptacle.
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