pigtails

[dynex22]

Hello! Is it to code if we pigtail #14 wire (copper) to a 15 amp residential receptacles on an existing 20 amp (aluminum) circuit?

 

[charlie b]

It is not. A 20 amp breaker would not provide protection for a #14 copper wire. You would need to use #12 copper for the pigtail.

Welcome to the forum. Sorry you didn't get good news on your first post. :smile:

 

[dynex22]

pigtails

Thanks Charlie. I was hoping for better news.

 

[cowboyjwc]

Are you sure it's a 20 amp circuit and not just #12 AL? The aluminum is always one side larger than copper.

Otherwise I agree with Charlie

 

[LarryFine]

Let's not forget that it's not okay to simply wire-nut a copper jumper to aluminum conductors, regardless of size.

 

[iwire]

Let's not forget that it's not okay to simply wire-nut a copper jumper to aluminum conductors, regardless of size.

That will be news to Ideal. :wink:

Twister? AL/CU Wire Connector

 

[frizbeedog]

Are you sure it's a 20 amp circuit and not just #12 AL? The aluminum is always one side larger than copper.

Otherwise I agree with Charlie

see 240.4 (D) NEC 2008

I usually find #12 AL is connected to 15 amp breaker an #10 connected to a 20 amp breaker as they should be. If you are splicing copper to al. then a #14 is ok on a #12 if it is protected at 15 amps as the code requires. And as Mr. Eastwood said use the approved wirenut. this is a common practice in my experience to make a proper pigtail from that dreaded stuff.