Electrical Wiring in the Home/code question
Expert: Rick Miell - 11/11/2004
QuestionI Wanted to know if its with in code to use 15 amp switches and receptacles on a 20 amp breaker. (Residental)
AnswerHi aj.
It is allowable to install a 15amp duplex outlet on a 20amp circuit. See Article 210.21(B)(3) for this rule.
Switches are covered in Article 404.14. This says that all snap switches are to be used within their rating. A 15amp switch could not be used on a 20amp circuit, unless allowed by Article 404.14(A)(1, 2 or 3).
Hope this helps.
PS. 2002 National Electrical Code used for these answers.
Rick Miell
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