Re: 15 amp sockets and code?

James Sweet <jamessweet1@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote:

> > Now the question.  Has the code changed in recent years
> > to disallow 15A (NEMA 5-15) outlets on 20A circuits, assuming
> > of course the circuit uses 12ga wire?  I know there used
> > to be specific exemption for 15A rated outlets on 20A wiring.
> > Have they taken that away, or was warning on the box some
> > legal CYA?  Just curious.

> I always use 20A circuits and #12 wire for receptacles, it's been 
> standard practice for decades. The 15A rating is for each individual 
> section of a duplex receptacle, no appliance with that plug will draw 
> more than 15A.

Well, that's my standard practice as well.  The question was about
the warning/instruction on the outlet packaging that specified
use of a 15A breaker.  First I'd ever heard of such a warning.

I told the guy I would normally use 12ga wire, but he already had
14ga and as far as I know it's not illegal to use, just not what
I would do.

Bill Ranck
Blacksburg, Va.