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    Voltes's Avatar
    Voltes Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Jan 8, 2009, 07:46 PM
    20 amp outlets in my kitchen
    I had a 20 amp GFCI and another 15 amp outlet next to the GFCI (down stream) in my Kitchen that I replaced. I replaced it with another 20 amp GFCI and this time I used a 20 amp outlet instead of 15 amp. I have a 20 amp breaker. I am now thinking that it might not have been the correct thing to do. Can I have 20 amp outlets with 20 amp breakers? What is my benefit in having a 20 amp outlet in a kitchen?

    Thank you
    andrewc24301's Avatar
    andrewc24301 Posts: 374, Reputation: 29
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    #2

    Jan 8, 2009, 08:58 PM

    20 amp outlets can accept a 20 amp plug, which has one sideways spade, preventing a 20 amp appliance from being plugged into a 15 amp outlet.

    It's not likley that you will run into any of these in a kitchen. Most small appliances take 15 amp plugs. You may find one on a window air conditioner.

    Regarding code issues, I'll step aside and let the real electricians step in.
    Tev's Avatar
    Tev Posts: 232, Reputation: 20
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    #3

    Jan 9, 2009, 09:26 PM

    What you did is fine. It may or may not have been necessary to spend the extra few dollars but without more info I can't tell you which. What I can tell you is that you should be fine with that set-up and the cost was less than calling an electrician.
    andrewc24301's Avatar
    andrewc24301 Posts: 374, Reputation: 29
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    #4

    Jan 9, 2009, 09:43 PM

    I forgot to mention, in case it crosses your mind, that although you will probobly not run into a small kitchen appliance with a 20 amp plug, here is how it works:

    A 20 amp outlet can accept a 15 or 20 amp plug.

    A 15 amp outlet can only accept a 15 amp plug, and there are no adaptors.

    20 amp plugs are normally used on appliances requiring a dedicated circuit, as the appliance (i.e. a window AC) will use a good portion of those 20 amps.
    KISS's Avatar
    KISS Posts: 12,510, Reputation: 839
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    #5

    Jan 9, 2009, 09:52 PM

    Either way is OK. You do need 12 AWG wire though with a 20 A breaker.

    Many times a GFCI's socket will be rated at a lower current than the ones downstream.

    Code generally requires two 20 amp counter circuits for remodels and new construction.

    You MIGHT find a microwave with a 20A plug on it.
    andrewc24301's Avatar
    andrewc24301 Posts: 374, Reputation: 29
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    #6

    Jan 10, 2009, 10:09 AM
    Quote Originally Posted by KeepItSimpleStupid View Post
    You MIGHT find a microwave with a 20A plug on it.
    Agreed: however I'd bet a microwave with a 20 amp plug would amost require it's own dedicated circuit anyway. As you wouldn't be able to use much else on the circuit when the microwave is running.
    codyman144's Avatar
    codyman144 Posts: 544, Reputation: 31
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    #7

    Jan 10, 2009, 10:11 AM

    If I am running 12/2 on a 20 amp breaker I use 20 amp rated outlets. Might be overkill but I just feel better that way.
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