ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Must I replace a single 15-amp receptacle on a 20 amp ckt. with a 20 amp receptacle?

There is a 15 amp (single) receptacle on a 125 volt-20 amp dedicated circuit in an apartment.

This receptacle replaced a heavily paint-glopped 20-amp receptacle. (I didn't realize what it was until I picked up the pieces off the floor - by then it was too late to get a 20-amp 125volt device).

It only powers a 110-volt 15-amp air conditioner in the summer and during the winter it occasionally powers some light appliances like lamps, X-mas tree lights and the occasional television set.

Considering all of the above, must I replace this 15-amp receptacle with a 20 amp device? Or is it OK to leave it as is for the time being?

Sven,

It is actually common and permitted to install 15A Receptacles on 20A circuits, provided there is at least one duplex (or two singles) on the circuit.

This is assuming #12 wire, of course.

Virgil,

Thanks very much. I forgot to mention. This is the only receptacle on that circuit. It is supposed to be a dedicated air conditioner circuit for a maximum 20-amp/125volt unit.

So judging by what you said, the existing 15-amp socket should be replaced by a 20-amp, correct?

That would be the best thing to do, given it is a single dedicated receptacle. In a pinch, a duplex would be legal even if the second receptacle is not used, but considering the expected load, a single 20A Spec grade would be my recommendation....

If this is a SINGLE receptacle that is fed from a dedicated 20 amp circuit it MUST be a 20 amp rated receptacle.

Apparently I failed to make myself clear and managed to look like an idiot.

To reiterate:

Single receptacle: MUST be a 20

Duplex Receptacle: 20 or 15 is OK

Multiple Receptacles: 20 or 15 is OK

Better?

Thanks very much Virgil and 'Scott!!!!!

You both cleared it all up.

[This message has been edited by SvenNYC (edited 02-27-2003).]

All egos checked at door! Just trying to help clarify.

[This message has been edited by Electricmanscott (edited 02-27-2003).]