ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Code Wiring Question

Is it a violation of the national electric code to use 14-3 wire for simple, non-3way 15 amp circuit? The original plan called for some 3 way switches that were not installed after the 3 way wiring had been done. The electrician used wire nuts to cap the red lead in every box it wasn't used.

No worries wendel. No worries at all.

I sure wish that more people made that "mistake". It's almost as nice as having EMT to allow you to get another circuit in. I would thank them for the change in plans.

[This message has been edited by EV607797 (edited 12-12-2006).]

I've personally seen this many times.

The scary thing is how many times you find 2 wire used on a 3 way leg using the ground.

Precaution. I know this is not on your subject, but, check the trip rating of the circuit breaker to make sure it's 15 Amp and not 20 Amp.

I've seen cases where the plans call for #12 AWG with a 20/1 breaker in the panelboard and #14 AWG was installed. This would be a violation of the NEC.