This post extends from the emailed mike holt NEC questions for the day. Referring to code section 210.21, specifically table 210.21(B)(3). This does not make sence. If I am reading it correctly, it is saying you can not put a 20A duplex receptacle on a circuit protected by a 15A breaker. I do not see the harm in it. Even if you plug in a 20A load, the 15A OCPD will protect the circuit from overload. You should be able to connect any receptacle to a 15A circuit even if it is say rated for 50A. I find this to be stranger than allowing a receptacle rated for 15A to be allowed on a 20A circuit. I know, there can't be a load exceeding 15A plugged into a 15A receptacle.
receptacle ratings, 15a and 20a
- Thread starter mjmike
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kingpb
Senior Member
- Location
- SE USA as far as you can go
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- Engineer, Registered
I guess i don't follow the confusion. For example, a NEMA 15A receptacle configuration of the slots, is not going to physically accept a 20A plug. So, in essence even if you wanted to try this, which I'm not sure why because a 20A load on a 15A circuit is going trip, the plug and receptacle won't match up.
IMO, the NEC could take this out because it's not really related to safety, it's a matter of it just wouldn't work.
IMO, the NEC could take this out because it's not really related to safety, it's a matter of it just wouldn't work.
kwired
Electron manager
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- NE Nebraska
A little like supplying a 100 amp main breaker panel with a 60 amp feeder isn't it?
- Location
- New Jersey
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- Journeyman Electrician
A 20 amp circuit can have a 15 amp duplex receptacle not a 15 amp single receptacle.
A 15 amp circuit can have a 20 amp single receptacle not a 20 amp duplex.
A 15 amp circuit can have a 20 amp single receptacle not a 20 amp duplex.
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