hi,
thanks for the reply don, but as i read 240.4 (E) this allows a tap using #14 from a #12.

the exception covers this situation...a bathroom requires a 20A circuit...if it feeds only a single bath then you can TAP the 20A circuit SAFELY using the rules as outlined in 210.19 (4) Exception No. 1 and table 210.24 which clearly allow this...to supply two or more outlets...not a RECEPTACLE but lighting outlets and exhuast fan..

i quote from the NEC HANDBOOK PAGE 87 Highlighted Area regarding 210.24

"Table 210.24 summarizes branch-circuit protection requirements of conductors, overcurrent protection, outlet DEVICES, maximum load, and permissible load where two or more outlets are supplied. If the branch circuit serves a fixture load and supplies two or more fixture outlets, 210.23 requires the BRANCH circuit to have a SPECIFIC ampere rating that is based on the rating of the overcurrent device, as stated in 210.3. Etc.

this rule applies more closely than anything in 240.4, but specifically covers BRANCH CIRCUITS and not TAPS...

the tap is the wire in the box nailed on the wall that feeds the DEVICE which is the switch, this device/switch feeds a LIGHT FIXTURE or LUMINAIRE...i dont see any problem here...am i missing something?

if it were me, i always use number 12 anyway...i dont even buy #14!...

an associate asked me because he got gigged by a BUILDING INSPECTOR who told him that he could not use #14 to tap from a 20A circuit..

i am still open to hear any further comments though

i had no doubt that it was a loaded question!!!

-regards

frodo



[This message has been edited by frodo (edited 09-03-2002).]