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Joined: Aug 2002
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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?
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Joined: Nov 2000
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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 Residential/Commercial Inspector 5 Star Inspections Member IAEI
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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?
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Joined: Nov 2000
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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....
-Virgil Residential/Commercial Inspector 5 Star Inspections Member IAEI
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If this is a SINGLE receptacle that is fed from a dedicated 20 amp circuit it MUST be a 20 amp rated receptacle.
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Joined: Nov 2000
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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?
-Virgil Residential/Commercial Inspector 5 Star Inspections Member IAEI
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Thanks very much Virgil and 'Scott!!!!! You both cleared it all up. [This message has been edited by SvenNYC (edited 02-27-2003).]
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Joined: Jan 2002
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All egos checked at door! Just trying to help clarify.
[This message has been edited by Electricmanscott (edited 02-27-2003).]
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