outlet wire size
#1
03-01-03, 05:19 PM
outlet wire size
I tapped into a outlet box to run a new wire.I replaced old box with a larger one.I now have three wires that need to be connected plus wires to outlet.Old setup was #12 wire to outlet in and out of box. Can I run #14 wire to the 15 amp outlet? There are other outlets on the circuit.
#2
03-01-03, 05:52 PM
MGJ,
You have to determine what size of breaker feeds this circuit. If it is a 15 amp breaker, you can use the #14 cable. Sometimes the #12 is used on a 15A breaker for voltage drop purposes or somebody ran out of #14 or just because.
But if the circuit is protected by a 20 amp breaker, you must use #12 cable.
~Peter
You have to determine what size of breaker feeds this circuit. If it is a 15 amp breaker, you can use the #14 cable. Sometimes the #12 is used on a 15A breaker for voltage drop purposes or somebody ran out of #14 or just because.
But if the circuit is protected by a 20 amp breaker, you must use #12 cable.
~Peter
#3
03-01-03, 08:14 PM
Member
If you have any lingering doubts after doing the investigation that Peter suggests, use 12 gauge.
