I'm glad you agree; so do I. The problem is that it doesn't matter what we agree upon, and it doesn't matter what common sense would dictate. What matters, and it's the only thing that matters, is what the code says about it.
That's what i was hoping the Forum's experts could guide me to. The problem is that on face value, the code would seem to dissalow having any element of a circuit rated at less than the overcurrent breaker protecting that circuit in the distribution panel. Witness that is is not allowed that the wiring from a wall switch to a permanently mounted 60W closet light be less than #14 or #12 for 15A or 20A circuits respectively. The code doesn't appear to factor in that the responsibility "to make sure that the connected loads are within its capacity" has been met. It's dissallowed regardless, period, end of story.
That being said, a logical extension would be that having a 600W dimmer in circuit capable of supporting a 2400W load is similarly disallowed, but the consensus is that it is acceptable. Can anyone point me to where the code specifically addresses this issue.
I don't want to have to deal with some -thinks he knows it all building inspector- who's personal version of common sense is that it is a violation, if all I can counter with is that gee, everyone else says its ok.
And since you bring up "same thing would apply to a 15 amp switch on a 20 amp circuit" All the switches in the apartment complex I am working in are rated 20A, even those controlling only a single bulb fixture. Surely, someone feels that this is manditory, especially in view of the fact the everything else was built on the cheap. Can yoh guide me to where the code says that 15A switches are allowed where there the branch circuit won't exceed that 15A, even though 12ga wire is required throughout?
Thank you sincerely.
