Let’s explain why this is possible:Ī 20 amp circuit is designed to handle 20 amps. In short: Because of the NEC 80% rule and, yes, you can put a 15 amp outlet on a 20 amp circuit. Can you put a 15 amp outlet on a 20 amp circuit? That is without running the risk of the circuit catching on fire.Why can’t you put a 20 amp outlet on a 20 amp circuit?.But no electrician will put a 20 amp receptacle on a 20 amp circuit. It seems quite reasonable, right? A 20 amp circuit is designed to handle 20 amps, that’s true. So if you need help with an electrical project, reach out to us.Why not? Some homeowners still think that you can put a 20 amp outlet on a 20 amp circuit. We’ve been in the electricity business for over 30 years in Richmond, VA. Electric, we have certified electricians that can help answer questions. Got an Electrical Project? We Can Help!īefore you pull any wires or breakers out from the wall for a DIY project, it is best to consult an electrician first. Though, that assumes the standard home voltage of 120V. So, we can draw up to 1,440 Watts from a circuit safely. So, our calculation looks like this for the wattage that a 15 amp breaker can handle: The NEC recommends that a circuit under continuous load uses no more than 80% of its capacity. The wattage of a circuit is the electrical power drawn from the circuit.įinally, we should understand the idea of continuous load or a constant draw of power from the circuit. We also need to know that amps relate to the wattage and voltage of a circuit. Voltage is the potential of the electrical current to move. Resistance is the difficulty the current experiences in moving. This law from physics tells us that the current of a circuit is related to the resistance and the voltage. To calculate the circuit load capacity for a 15 amp circuit, we need to understand a few things.įirst, there is the concept of Ohm’s Law. What Is Circuit or Electrical Load Capacity? These circuits are great for smaller appliances, consumer electronics, and lights. One of these circuits is the 15-amp circuit.
Either a circuit breaker or fuse box divides the electricity into several circuit branches. Once the electricity reaches your home, it gets a little more complex. This process is how electricity gets to your home. These circuits consist of wires or other conductive materials that guide the electricity.
Here are some answers to the common questions out there about home circuits: What’s a Circuit?Ī circuit is a pathway for electrical current to travel on. The Basics: What You Must Know About Your Electrical Circuitry Motorized electronics need dedicated circuits to operate safely, meaning one circuit serves one item at a time.īut, how do breakers and dedicated circuits help keep you safe? How many watts can a 15-amp breaker handle? Let’s look at what these terms mean and how much power you can draw from your home’s basic circuits. These devices help make sure that your home stays safe from electrical damage. Before loading a circuit with your holiday lights or kitchen appliances, you should know about your breakers.
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