Quote:
Originally Posted by MBAtarga
The issue is if an electronic device with a 15A plug has an internal failure (short) and draws MORE than 15A. The purpose of the breaker is to trip, and a 20A breaker won't trip until it senses 20A of current. So the 15A outlet, or the 14AWG wire (normal use on a 15A circuit) fails and causes overheating which leads to a fire.
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Guys, you are overthinking this. 12 wire, 20 amp breakers, 15A receptacle ok as long as it isn't the a single dedicated 20A feed (like for a heater or pump)
"A single receptacle installed on an individual branch circuit must have an ampere
rating not less than that of the branch circuit. For example, a single receptacle on a 20- ampere individual branch circuit must be rated at 20 amperes; however, two or more 15-ampere receptacles or duplex receptacles are permitted on a 20-ampere general purpose branch circuit. .......
15 amp duplex receptacles are rated at 20 amps pass through in the UL listings. And each 1/2 of the duplex is rated at 15 amps. So they can handle a 15 and 5 or 10 and 10 amp loads for example."
The standard 15A GFCI receptacles are rated for 20 amp feed thru. It's the plug configuration, not the device. As gogar points out, 2 vertical prongs are 15a plugs.
That is why kitchens & dining rooms are 12 gauge, 20 amp breaker, with the common 15a receptacles.
It's common to use 14 gauge 15 amp for lighting other general outlets.