Re: 15 amp sockets and code?

phil-news-nospam@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
 writes:

>Apparently, all 15A outlets are capable of handling 20A, at least in
>the common part.  The 20A plug has the same contact surface area as
>a 15A plug, so I don't see that this is the issue.  If UL tests all
>outlet devices that are of the NEMA 5-15R configuration as if they
>were of the 5-20R configuration, and they pass, it should be safe.

I've encountered el-cheapo 5-15R duplex outlets (from Home Depot, I
believe) that if wired "backstabbed", would only accept #14 gauge, and
therefore would only be usable on 15A circuits.  It had holes that #12
simply wouldn't fit into.  Of course the screws had no such restriction.  
I have to wonder if such an outlet could be rated as handling 20A from
screw to screw.  Of course with the recepticle being 5-15R, in theory,
nothing plugged into either outlet could draw more than ~12A or so.