This is so helpful. I am upgrading my laser cutter, and they recommend 20 amp circuit. I have so many circuits in this house that are 20 amp but the receptacles are all looking like 15. Why would they do that?
Thanks for watching & we appreciate you reaching out to us. It’s not uncommon for 15amp outlets to be fed into the 20amp circuit. A 15amp is only going to perform at 15amp specs...meaning if it try’s to take on more amps, it will overheat & fail. The unfortunate thing in your case is that the option is definitely there...since you have 15amp outlets fed into 20amp circuit. Some electricians will say it’s best to have your outlets match your circuit. As to your question, depends on code & who installs them. If your local code doesn’t require 20amp outlets to be installed on 20amp circuits, the company installing outlets can save you some money by installing 15amp. However other code regulations apply different rules in other places. Hope this helps & please keep us posted on your project. 😎👍🔧🔩
Hi, I have a question regarding my outlets and the circuit breaker box in my unit. My wall receptacles are shaped for 15 amp but the actual switch on the circuit breaker box says 20a for my unit. Is it possible to plug in a 20a pdu and use it with an adapter plug for the wall? I'm trying to learn as I go for I plan to run a small mining rig that wouldn't exeed the 120v x 20a rule of 80% which is 1920 watts. Thanks in advance.@@DIYwithMichaelBorders
@@WolfManCer Good morning ☕️ Great question and most will advise away from adapters as it may lead to overheating wiring. The overall quality and compatibility of an adapter can be concerning if it’s very cheaply made. It may be best to install a 20amp receptacle to the 20amp circuit. Keep us posted.
Your video is SUPER helpful! I am trying to DIY and update all our non-GFCI receptacles in bathrooms and kitchen up to code, but I have no idea if I have to purchase 15 amp or 20 amp receptacles from Amazon! I am so lucky to find your video, you explained everything so clear to me! Thank you :)
elegraphy Thanks for checking out the video and sharing your comment! We appreciate it! That’s awesome! 😃 Definitely let us know how your DIY project goes. Let us know if you have any questions, we are here to help! Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! Also below is a link to our Appliance/Home Repair Video PlayList. It contains several videos that you can benefit from including additional videos on changing outlets, lights, and many more! Check those out! 😎👍🔧🔩 ruclips.net/p/PLjCXOz8TSkZmG-ZbhhKPj4Vh3K3MDPXii
I am getting ready to replace all of my outlets in my home as all of them are very old and the majority won't even hold anything plugged into them. Thank you so much for this video guide. Now I can go shopping for outlets!!
Janet Knight-Burlech Awesome Awesome & thanks for checking out the video and sharing your comment! We appreciate it! Definitely let us know how your DIY project goes. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! Also below is a link to our Appliance/Home Repair Video PlayList. It contains several videos that you can benefit from including additional videos on changing outlets, lights, and many more! Check those out! 😎👍🔧🔩 ruclips.net/p/PLjCXOz8TSkZmG-ZbhhKPj4Vh3K3MDPXii
Thank you for answering a simple question in a simple manner. Articles and videos with long drawn out intros and loads of peripheral, non-essential road trips are exhausting and frustrating.
Good morning, we are drinking our morning coffee answering any and all questions for the DIY community. You are very welcome, and a special thanks to you for taking the time out of your Monday morning to share this comment. It means the world to us. 😎👍
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. Keep us posted on your project. We are always here to help answer questions. Enjoy your day Liz. 😎👍🔧🔩
arciefan Thanks for watching! We are releasing our electrical series of videos over the next few weeks. Lots of good videos. Definitely check them out as they come! Thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
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Thanks for watching Joann, we appreciate you sharing this. Let us know if you have any questions, looking forward to hearing back from you as you install new outlets. 😎👍
Wow! I feel stupid. I thought the amperage was based on what kind of breaker box you had installed. Had know idea it had to do with the individual circuit breakers that were installed. This was very simple and helpful. Bought a house within the past year and had a standard floor-mounted outlet fail on me. Think one of my kids spilled something in one of the sockets / it might have just been old. In either case, wanted to upgrade to a GFCI since it’s more prone to liquid risks and what not. Came here to see what the heck I needed and had know idea it was as easy as checking my breaker box to see what circuit breaker was running that particular outlet (along with the other string of outlets that are in that part of the house) Thanks a mil! *** I did Google this as well and read that you can run a 15 on a 20 amp circuit but not a 20 on a 15 amp circuit ( kind of logical). So I wouldn’t necessarily have to buy a 20 amp outlet if that circuit is 20. Just means I have a choice. (Unless I know for a fact that I’ll have a 20 amp unit being plugged into that outlet) - correct me if I’m wrong.
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. We really appreciate you sharing this. Belated Congrats on the new house. We have several videos on outlet MX. Always here to help. Hope all is well with you and your family. Enjoy your week Josiah. 😎👍🔧🔩
You are absolutely correct. It's highly unlikely that you will come across an appliance with a 20 amp plug. You could put in a 20 amp receptacle, but why if you will never need it. They are more expensive than 15 amp receptacles and essentially offer no advantage. If your home has residential grade receptacles you could upgrade to 15 amp spec grade at some point. These receptacles are equivalent in quality to 20 amp. Furthermore, if you needed a 20 amp receptacle, it would need to be a dedicated circuit ( the only receptacle on that circuit) and it be a simplex, not a duplex receptacle. The only reasonable purpose for a 20 amp duplex is for 20 amp identification.
Thank you so much for this! I’m going to be replacing an outlet I use in our garage for my dog grooming as a metal piece inside the actual outlet had dropped or broke (my dad was thinking it’s part of the grounding because it’s copper colored) so I couldn’t plug anything into the bottom outlet. My dad was thinking something go too hot over time but when I unplug stuff it never feels hot and it says it’s a gfci protected outlet. So thinking maybe just old as this house was built over 20 years ago? But love all the info in this video. Found where the outlet says it’s a 15amp and it didn’t have the extra T and will go look at breaker box to check breaker amp also. Ordered a breaker finder tho from Amazon as I could not find which breaker goes to that outlet (they did a shit job at labeling the breakers) so praying that tool works as well as reviews says.
@@SmileyKiley30 Good morning ☕️ thanks for sharing this. That will be a great idea replacing it with a new receptacle. Please let us know if we can help answer any questions, the DIY community is the BEST! 😁👍🧰
21xd09 Awesome Awesome & thanks for watching! Its definitely fun getting to pick paint colors & all the additional items to match such as outlets, light switches, blinds...& more! We appreciate you sharing your comment! 😎👍🔧🔩
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Very helpful! Next question: Is there a significant difference in quality between a two 15 amp outlets that makes it worth spending up to 60-70 cents more per outlet? Or: why should I spend more for a 15 amp outlet plug?
Cat Leonard Thanks for watching & sharing your question. We have always been happy & satisfied with the Standard Outlets shown in this video. Keep us posted with any additional questions. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
If you have a 20 amp circuit it is not necessary to use 20 amp receptacle. NEC code say that you can you 15amp receptacle on a 20amp circuit but not a 20amp receptacle on a 15amp circuit. If you have taken apart a receptacle they sometimes have the slot for a 20 amp sideways prong hole on the internals. 20amp receptacles cost more and very few devices besides air conditioning window units use them.
SirDishs Thanks for watching & sharing your info. We appreciate it. This may help our future viewers! Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
The only reason for a 20 amp receptical would be if a piece of equipment requires a dedicated 20 amp circuit and only one single outlet, not a typical duplex outlet.
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Hal9thou001. What do you know for sure? You can install 15 or 20 amp duplex GFCI receptacles in your kitchen. At least that is what is in the National Electrical Code.
whez08 What’s up whez08, thanks for checking out the video and sharing your comment! We appreciate it! Definitely let us know how your DIY project goes. Let us know if you have any questions we are here to help! Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! Also below is a link to our Appliance/Home Repair Video PlayList. It contains several videos that you can benefit from including additional videos on changing outlets, lights, and many more! Check those out! 😎👍🔧🔩 ruclips.net/p/PLjCXOz8TSkZmG-ZbhhKPj4Vh3K3MDPXii
Great video. I have a treadmill and the manual states that I must have a 15A circuit. The circuits on my board all read 20, a couple of them 50 and 10. Can I plug my treadmill into the outlet that traces back to a circuit that's 20?
My breaker box is old, and does not indicate how many amps each breaker is. Previous 'DIY' electricians may have used the wrong outlets. Was hoping for a way to determine how many amps the circuit is from the outlet using a multimeter (or some other tool), or without removing the panel door, or at the very least, for this kind of scenario to be addressed. That did not happen in this video.
Chris Burrows Very cool & you are very welcome. Thanks for watching. We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀 Let us know if you have any questions. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
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Thank you! I was thinking of moving my refrigerator and now I see i need to move it to a place near a 20 amp outlet due prong configuration of the refrigerator plg.
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Hello! I’m not sure if you are still responding to messages on here. Your video was so helpful and informative but I have a personal situation that is confusing me. I tested all my breakers and the one that corresponds to the outlets im planning to change is a 20 amp circuit but the outlets in them appear to be 15amp receptacles?! They don’t have the T shaped neutral side. Honestly my apartment building is very old and outdated, many of the outlets in my apartment look horrible and have scorch marks on them so I wouldn’t put it past my landlord to have installed 15amps in a 20amp circuit, but my question is is this possible? And I’m replacing the outlets should I get the 20amp receptacles or is 15amp okay? These particular outlets I want to replace are in my bedroom and bathroom, they are very loose and plugs fall out all the time from them. So yeah hopefully you or someone sees this and has some insight 😅
Good morning, just poured a cup of coffee and am sitting down to answer any and all questions for the DIY community. We appreciate you reaching out to us and yes, we are still responding to all questions and comments. This will be personal preference however installing 15amp outlets on your 20amp circuit is ok however not the opposite. A 20amp outlet must not be installed on a 15amp circuit. Let us know if you have any questions and hey if you’re into crypto trading, join our DIY ecosystem. toolboxtoken.com Reach out to us any time! 🧰
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Jana Wilson Jana, thanks for checking out the video and sharing your comment! We appreciate it! That’s awesome! We are glad you enjoyed the video. 😃 Definitely let us know how your DIY project goes. Let us know if you have any questions, we are here to help! Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! Also below is a link to our Appliance/Home Repair Video PlayList. It contains several videos that you can benefit from including additional videos on changing outlets, lights, and many more! Check those out! 😎👍🔧🔩 ruclips.net/p/PLjCXOz8TSkZmG-ZbhhKPj4Vh3K3MDPXii
Using a 20 amp receptacle with a 15 amp breaker should be OK because the breaker and Wire size of 14 AWG will only limit the (current) Amps of 15 amps total. Most circuits in the home have many receptacles on one circuit like about 7 to 10 but all will be allowed at any one time will be 15 amps in total till the breaker trips. I read that 15 or 20 amp receptacles can be used on a 20 amp circuit but can't figure out why the 15 amp receptacle can be used with the higher breaker rating. read this i the Ontario hydro code book, it seems to be reversed like it should be 20 amp receptacle used on a 15 amp circuit with 14 gauge wire would be OK because the breaker would trip before the current exceeded the limits of the wire and receptacle.
I understand your reasoning in your first sentence, but the 20 amp receptacle is a designation that this is a 20 amp circuit with 12 gauge wire indicating that higher power appliances are ok to use. Excessive tripping is bad for the circuit and can weaken the breaker over time. I wouldn't recommend using a 15 amp residential grade duplex receptacle on a 20 amp circuit, even though it's allowed by code and probably wouldn't be a problem. However, a 15 amp "spec grade" is equivalent in durability, quality, and current capacity to a similar grade 20 amp receptacle and is recommended for residential use.
All of my outlets are 15a but my breaker panel shows all the circuit breakers are labeled as 20. Does this mean all my circuits are 20a? I am installing a GFCI should I get a 20a since it is capable?
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I've got a freeze dryer that requires a 20 amp dedicated circuit and uses a NEMA 5-20 plug. I have a washing machine nearby that is on a dedicated 20 amp circuit but has a standard outlet about 6 ft from the breaker box. I realize I can't use the two at the same time but can I simple change the outlet to a NEMA 5-20 outlet or does this require special wiring? Second question, I would rather put the freeze dryer in the opposite corner of the room about 12 ft max from the washing machine outlet but that side only has a shared 15 amp outlet. Is it safe to make a 15-25 ft drop cord rated for 20 amps with a NEMA 5-20 plug on one end and standard plug on the other to run to the washing machine outlet or would both ends of the cord need to be NEMA 5-20?
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Hey Morris, thanks for watching. We appreciate you reaching out to us. You probably have 15amp outlets. This is not incredibly uncommon for 15amp outlets to be fed into the 20amp circuit however we recommend replacing all 15amp outlets to 20amp outlets. A 15amp is only going to perform at 15amp specs...meaning if it try’s to take on more amps, it will overheat & fail. The unfortunate thing in your case is that the option is definitely there...since you most likely have 15amp outlets fed into 20amp circuit. It’s best to have your outlets match your circuit. Hope this helps & please keep us posted on your project. 😎👍🔧🔩
Scott Foy Thanks for watching & we really appreciate your comment Scott. We hope the video helped. We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come. 😀 Let us know if you have any questions. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
Very helpful. If I have a 15 amp outlet (I know this now thanks to your video) next to a pole rocker switch for my lights (in the bathroom) is it safe to assume the rocker switch needs to be 15 amp? My breaker box is a nightmare thanks to a couple electricians, hot tub guys and solar company mis-labeling my circuits so that will take some time to sort out. Thanks!
Alana Forrest Thanks for watching & we hope the video helped. Great question & it’s personal preference...meaning most electricians like to see the outlet match the breaker... We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀 Let us know if you have any questions. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
thanks. SO you can still plug in a regular device with the 2 vertical prongs into a 20 amp outle so its backwards compatible? or will you damage the device if you plug in a normal plug into a 20 amp outlet?
what's that plug with one horizontal, one vertical and one half oval but DOES NOT fit into any receptacle in this video? in other words it has the vertical and horizontal the other way compared to the one at 2:51
Thanks for watching, there is. Below are a few options. If interested in purchasing this product, visit our Amazon affiliate link below. I earn from qualifying purchases. amzn.to/49MWHDh amzn.to/3UaPKWX MAKE SURE 100% OF ELECTRICAL POWER BEING FED TO THAT RECEPTACLE IS TURNED OFF FOR SAFETY PURPOSES! 🧰
Question for you. My breaker says it’s a 20 amp circuit but the plugs on that 20 amp circuit are all 15 amps. Do they need to be 20 amp plugs or are 15 amp plugs on a 20 amp circuit ok?
Gino20202 Thanks for watching & we hope you enjoyed the video. That is A-Ok. You just cannot have it the other way around... meaning 20 amp receptacles connected to a 15 amp circuit. Many more helpful videos to come. Let us know if you have any questions. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again. 😎👍🔧🔩
Thanks for the video. Your audio needs work though, but the video info is great and to the point. I'd get more signal in your audio, and possibly use lavalier mics when talking at a distance rather than relying on the mic on a camera.
spacep0d Thanks for watching & we hope you enjoyed the video. We appreciate the advice. That’s awesome & helpful. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀 Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
My circuit breaker indicates “20” but the the actual outlet does NOT have the “T” hole. Now what? How do I know for sure? Is the breaker incorrect or did someone installed the 15 amp outlet incorrectly? The outlet is NOT GFCI plug.
Thanks for watching & we appreciate you reaching out to us. You have 15amp outlets. This is not incredibly uncommon for 15amp outlets to be fed into the 20amp circuit. A 15amp is only going to perform at 15amp specs...meaning if it try’s to take on more amps, it will overheat & fail. The unfortunate thing in your case is that the option is definitely there...since you have 15amp outlets fed into 20amp circuit. It’s best to have your outlets match your circuit. Hope this helps & please keep us posted on your project. 😎👍🔧🔩
I have a heat press that trips the breaker once it reaches 300 degrees, but turning it back on and leaving it on for the rest of my pressing seems to be ok. It's supposedly a 15 amp device, it's on a 15 amp breaker, 15 amp outlet, and the only device on the line. Do you suppose going to a 20 amp circuit (breaker/in the wall wire/outlet) would fix this problem? Also what's up with my garage having a single 15 amp breaker going to an outlet, and there's like 3 other outlets that piggyback off of it? People who installed it were just lazy? There's a couple empty slots on the panel they could easily have tapped..
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. In the event that you are interested in converting your 15amp circuit to a 20amp circuit, we recommend having that done by a licensed technician. They will ensure it is converted to the required level of passing proper code. Hope this helps.
I am trying to replace a 15 amp outlet in my garage to a 20 amp. My breaker switch have a “20” on it so I’m assuming it is a 20 amp circuit. What else can I do to make sure that the outlet I’m replacing can run a 20 amp outlet?
John Roque Thanks for watching & sharing your comment John. The next process you can take is actually contacting an Electrician & having them inspect system. If your panels circuit shows 20amp, then installing a 20amp outlet is recommended. Hope this helps! Keep us posted! Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
I have 3 GFI that will not re-set. one inside and 2 outside, should I go by what's on the circ breaker or should I take them out and look for the type on the GFI amp. my gut says that they are all 15 amp in the house not sure about the outside ones.
Sean Royal Thanks for watching. Are they not working properly anymore? Keep us posted. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀 Please subscribe to the channel and Ring your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
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Anchorblahzay Thanks for watching & you’re very welcome! We appreciate you reaching out to us! We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers! 😀 Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
Hi, what if the circuit breaker indicated 20 amps but the receptacles are 15amps? Is that dangerous? Noticed that in my new home and thinking wether I should replace those receptacles with 20amps ones. Thanks.
Ion Mardari Thanks for watching, we always recommend having your outlet receptacles match your circuit breaker. Hope this helps. Please subscribe to the channel and Ring your RUclips Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
It's perfectly safe, and the NEC code allows either a 15 OR a 20 amp receptacle on 12 gauge (20 amp) wiring. 20 amp receptacles are really for unusual appliances that use 20 amps. 20 amp appliances are something like a welder, or a commercial grade waffle iron, or some sort of extreme blender. IMO (and many electricians as well) it's really not necessary to put a 20 amp outlet on a 20 amp circuit, unless you have some special need for it. Why this youtube channel recommends it is unclear.
@@mysapho Thanks for the reply, chances are the receptacle is upside down. Is the any letters or numbers on outer portion of receptacle that are upside down?
RonJohn Thanks for watching & we hope the video helped. Great question & it’s always best to have the receptacle match the breaker. We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀 Let us know if you have any questions. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
My Jj Thanks for watching, great question. We recommend using a 20amp outlet to match your breaker. Keep us posted on your project. Let us know if you have any questions. Us fellow DIY’ers need to stick together. Many more helpful videos to come! Please subscribe to the channel and Ring your RUclips Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. It’s even simpler than that. 😀 We recommend going to your circuit breaker panel and if the breaker says 15, it’s a 15amp circuit. If the breaker says 20, it’s a 20amp circuit. In regards to receptacle, if it has the (T-shaped) slots...it’s a 20amp receptacle. Hope this helps. Thanks again for watching, hope all is well with you and your family. 😎👍🔧🔩
bLOsK_323 Thanks for watching & sharing your comment. What kind of outlets are currently installed? Keep us posted, we are here to help! Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
SKYONE DESIGNERS PLUS Thanks for watching & glad it helped. Please subscribe to the channel and ring your RUclips bell 🔔 this will be helpful to us thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
Question, we're working in an old house, and the panel has 20amp breaker running the 14/2 AWG, so I've installed 15amp rated outlet, weird thing, pluggin anything into it burned Makita charger, and shop vac, I'm trying to brainstorm what's causin it...
John Smith Thanks for watching & sharing your experience John, that’s a great question! It will need to be a 15amp breaker. A 14-2 is not rated for a 20amp breaker. This is very important because if wired as is, it’s very possible that a wire can melt if it draws too much power, & that’s the last thing you want! 😲 Hope this helps! Keep us posted! Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
are the numbers on the electric panel indicating the amp of each outlet? I just checked mine and some are 15, some 20 and others 30. 20-30 are usually for cooktop and dryer etc, is that expected?
Yes, the actual number that's stamped on each circuit breaker is what you're looking for. You must match that particular circuit breaker with the outlet that you want to swap and that's how you'll know what size to buy on the new receptacle. The lower numbers are for things that don't draw lots of power (light switches, receptacles), and the higher numbers (30, 40, 50, 60amps) are for large appliances like your dryer, range, central air, etc...
I have no access to circuit breakers, but need to know if I can pull 20 amps through an outlet when traveling(plugging in a van)...many 20 amp circuits have regular 15 amp outlets(no "T" cross} attached to them. Is there a device I can plug into it to safely determine if it is actually 20 amps? This is a very common problem....out of code, of course. For example, my brother's craptastic 1980's subdivision rented house has 20 amp circuits in the kitchen and laundry room, but the plugs do not have "T" cross outlets, just standard ones(the laundry room does have a proper 30 amp circuit outlet for the dryer, as well).
Thanks for watching & we appreciate you sharing this. It’s actually easier than that. You will need to open up your household main circuit breaker panel and reference the titled items in relation to the circuit breaker number and there you can see which outlets are 20amp.
@@DIYwithMichaelBorders I guess I wasn't clear enough...when traveling in a camper van, I will have NO access to the circuit breaker boxes of places I plug into in many cases, but want to be able to know if it is a 20 amp circuit or a 15 amp one even if the outlet appears to be 15 amp only(or if it is only a 15 amp line with 20 amp outlets. That unfortunately happens a fair amount. Is there a way to do that? Any device I can carry with me? That is what I was trying to ask. Sorry for the confusion.
@@claycassin8437 Thanks for the reply, the tool does exist. LOWES or Home Depot are good places to go. It will be an amp meter. This will be perfect. 😎👍
@@DIYwithMichaelBorders I am aware of those...I knew they could measure the amp load flowing in a circuit, but was unaware that they could determine the total amp capability of a circuit without having a load on it. interesting.
Cliff DaRiff Thanks for watching & we hope the video helped. It is perfectly ok & safe to insert a 15 amp plug into a 20 amp outlet...however it’s not ok nor safe to “install or wire” a 15 amp outlet into a 20 amp circuit. Hope this helps! We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀 Let us know if you have any questions. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
That's normal and what I would expect. It's code compliant and you have a choice of either 15 or 20 amp receptacle. A 20 amp receptacle offers no advantage over a spec grade 15 amp. You may have the cheaper residential grade and may consider upgrading to spec grade at some point. They are slightly more expensive, but cheaper than 20 amp.
We got a new oven that recommends 16A plug but we only have a 15A one where the discarded oven use to draw power from. This new oven has a max power rating of 3kW and max current rating of 12.7A. Can I just use my my old 15A plug and wire with it? Thanks.
Sally L Thanks for watching. Although it recommends a higher plug than 15amp, sounds like you took a look at your specifications inside your instructional and installation manual. You located some valuable info. With the microwave having a max output of 12.7a, a 15a circuit should work & will still be to code. Hope this helps. 😎👍🔧🔩
DIY With Michael Borders Thanks for your prompt response. We got the new oven up and running today. Your reply gave us peace of mind that it would not blow up, as I was unsure and contemplating installing a socket that is next step up here in Australia ... a 20A one... Thanks again for your reply, we will stick to the 15A socket.
@@DIYwithMichaelBorders You may be forgetting the 80% rule. NEC says an circuit with multiple outlets, a single appliance can only use 80% of the rated amps for the circuit. So 15Amps*.8=12 amps, which is less than the appliance rated at 12.7. If, however, there's only one appliance plugged into the circuit, the appliance can use 100% of the capacity. So essentially if it's only the microwave plugged into the circuit, it's fine. If the microwave shares an outlet with something else, you're out of code. I suspect this is largely more about nuisance trips than any real safety concern.
@@allesuye2551 The information you gave is for 240 volts, not 120 volts. A 16 amp device is European device! I hope you figured this out before you did it wrong.
Gary Urbik Thanks for watching & we are happy the video helped. We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀 Let us know if you have any questions. Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
Natural Gaming. I am not aware of an adapter that converts 20 amp 120 volt configuration to 15 amp 120 volt unless it is for an RV. If you have a 20 amp breaker and #12 conductors, you can buy a 20 amp duplex or single receptacle and replace the 15 amp that you have. Full 20 amp power strips are way more expensive. Do you really need 20 amps or just more places to plug in? Respectfully, Kevin
@@NATURALGAMING Can you send me a link to the adapter you are talking about? I’m interested to see what it is. I designed electrical systems since 1983. The only thing that I have seen that utilizes 20 amp 120 volt plugs are very large copy machines in offices, and true 20 amp plug in strips. You might be able to find a small welder. Almost everything 120 volts has 15 amp plugs. Respectfully, Kevin
This is so helpful. I am upgrading my laser cutter, and they recommend 20 amp circuit. I have so many circuits in this house that are 20 amp but the receptacles are all looking like 15. Why would they do that?
Thanks for watching & we appreciate you reaching out to us. It’s not uncommon for 15amp outlets to be fed into the 20amp circuit.
A 15amp is only going to perform at 15amp specs...meaning if it try’s to take on more amps, it will overheat & fail.
The unfortunate thing in your case is that the option is definitely there...since you have 15amp outlets fed into 20amp circuit.
Some electricians will say it’s best to have your outlets match your circuit. As to your question, depends on code & who installs them. If your local code doesn’t require 20amp outlets to be installed on 20amp circuits, the company installing outlets can save you some money by installing 15amp. However other code regulations apply different rules in other places.
Hope this helps & please keep us posted on your project.
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Hi, I have a question regarding my outlets and the circuit breaker box in my unit. My wall receptacles are shaped for 15 amp but the actual switch on the circuit breaker box says 20a for my unit. Is it possible to plug in a 20a pdu and use it with an adapter plug for the wall? I'm trying to learn as I go for I plan to run a small mining rig that wouldn't exeed the 120v x 20a rule of 80% which is 1920 watts. Thanks in advance.@@DIYwithMichaelBorders
@@WolfManCer
Good morning ☕️
Great question and most will advise away from adapters as it may lead to overheating wiring.
The overall quality and compatibility of an adapter can be concerning if it’s very cheaply made.
It may be best to install a 20amp receptacle to the 20amp circuit. Keep us posted.
My electrician did it cause he wanted to save money, i asked for 20s and he installed 15s without telling me and dipped.
Same issue bout a pack of 15 amps turns out they are 20 amps
To the point, short, simple video. Just what I needed.
We appreciate that, thank you. 🧰
Your video is SUPER helpful! I am trying to DIY and update all our non-GFCI receptacles in bathrooms and kitchen up to code, but I have no idea if I have to purchase 15 amp or 20 amp receptacles from Amazon! I am so lucky to find your video, you explained everything so clear to me! Thank you :)
elegraphy
Thanks for checking out the video and sharing your comment! We appreciate it! That’s awesome! 😃
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ruclips.net/p/PLjCXOz8TSkZmG-ZbhhKPj4Vh3K3MDPXii
I am getting ready to replace all of my outlets in my home as all of them are very old and the majority won't even hold anything plugged into them. Thank you so much for this video guide. Now I can go shopping for outlets!!
Janet Knight-Burlech
Awesome Awesome & thanks for checking out the video and sharing your comment! We appreciate it!
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ruclips.net/p/PLjCXOz8TSkZmG-ZbhhKPj4Vh3K3MDPXii
Thank you for answering a simple question in a simple manner. Articles and videos with long drawn out intros and loads of peripheral, non-essential road trips are exhausting and frustrating.
Good morning, we are drinking our morning coffee answering any and all questions for the DIY community.
You are very welcome, and a special thanks to you for taking the time out of your Monday morning to share this comment. It means the world to us.
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Thank you, I have so many useless outlets. I'm going to fix them myself. Wish me luck and thanks for your help!
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. Keep us posted on your project. We are always here to help answer questions. Enjoy your day Liz.
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dude your voice is so quiet and calm. thanks for this explanation!
I've changed outlets and breakers in my house before and I honestly did not know this. Thanks for the video!
arciefan
Thanks for watching! We are releasing our electrical series of videos over the next few weeks. Lots of good videos. Definitely check them out as they come! Thanks again! 😎👍🔧🔩
The 2nd Plug was a 250V Plug at 2:46 has reverse Hot and Neutral's.
First video that came up in google search , clear and easy to understand .
Awesome Awesome & thanks for sharing this. Let us know if you have any questions.
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T-shaped neutral … thx for the simple explanation!
You are welcome, thank you. 😎👍
Wow! I am so much more electrically smarter today because of this video! Thanks so much
RUclips is very helpful. Thanks for this detailed video sir.
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Very helpful. To the point. You answered exactly what I was trying to find out. Wish all RUclips videos were as helpful. Thank you.
c c
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Just the info I needed. Now I know which receptacle to return.
Thanks for watching Luis, we appreciate you sharing this. Let us know if you have any questions, hope all is well.
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Excellent video. Forward, to the point with visual support too. No confusion. Thank you.
Kat Batt
Thanks for watching & glad we could help. To the point is what we shoot for.
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Thank you. simple explaination. Finally someone who gets WE may not get it!
You are very welcome and thank YOU! That’s what we are all about here at our channel, helping the DIY community!
Please reach out to us any time Rhonda, hope all is well. 😎👍🧰
Good video and just double checking the basics as considering changing an outlet
Thank you, much appreciated. Let us know if you have any questions.
Made so much sense and now I can buy the right outlets.
Thanks for watching Joann, we appreciate you sharing this. Let us know if you have any questions, looking forward to hearing back from you as you install new outlets.
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Wow! I feel stupid.
I thought the amperage was based on what kind of breaker box you had installed.
Had know idea it had to do with the individual circuit breakers that were installed.
This was very simple and helpful.
Bought a house within the past year and had a standard floor-mounted outlet fail on me. Think one of my kids spilled something in one of the sockets / it might have just been old. In either case, wanted to upgrade to a GFCI since it’s more prone to liquid risks and what not.
Came here to see what the heck I needed and had know idea it was as easy as checking my breaker box to see what circuit breaker was running that particular outlet (along with the other string of outlets that are in that part of the house)
Thanks a mil!
*** I did Google this as well and read that you can run a 15 on a 20 amp circuit but not a 20 on a 15 amp circuit ( kind of logical). So I wouldn’t necessarily have to buy a 20 amp outlet if that circuit is 20. Just means I have a choice. (Unless I know for a fact that I’ll have a 20 amp unit being plugged into that outlet) - correct me if I’m wrong.
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. We really appreciate you sharing this. Belated Congrats on the new house.
We have several videos on outlet MX. Always here to help. Hope all is well with you and your family.
Enjoy your week Josiah. 😎👍🔧🔩
You are absolutely correct. It's highly unlikely that you will come across an appliance with a 20 amp plug. You could put in a 20 amp receptacle, but why if you will never need it. They are more expensive than 15 amp receptacles and essentially offer no advantage. If your home has residential grade receptacles you could upgrade to 15 amp spec grade at some point. These receptacles are equivalent in quality to 20 amp. Furthermore, if you needed a 20 amp receptacle, it would need to be a dedicated circuit ( the only receptacle on that circuit) and it be a simplex, not a duplex receptacle. The only reasonable purpose for a 20 amp duplex is for 20 amp identification.
@@surferdude642
Thanks for sharing Ted. 😎👍
Thank you so much for this! I’m going to be replacing an outlet I use in our garage for my dog grooming as a metal piece inside the actual outlet had dropped or broke (my dad was thinking it’s part of the grounding because it’s copper colored) so I couldn’t plug anything into the bottom outlet. My dad was thinking something go too hot over time but when I unplug stuff it never feels hot and it says it’s a gfci protected outlet. So thinking maybe just old as this house was built over 20 years ago?
But love all the info in this video. Found where the outlet says it’s a 15amp and it didn’t have the extra T and will go look at breaker box to check breaker amp also. Ordered a breaker finder tho from Amazon as I could not find which breaker goes to that outlet (they did a shit job at labeling the breakers) so praying that tool works as well as reviews says.
@@SmileyKiley30
Good morning ☕️ thanks for sharing this. That will be a great idea replacing it with a new receptacle.
Please let us know if we can help answer any questions, the DIY community is the BEST! 😁👍🧰
Great job with the video. Very informative and straight to the point. Thank you and keep up the great work!
Wilfredo Crave Jr
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Very helpful info whenever I get my own house and repair my own too! Very informational!
21xd09
Awesome Awesome & thanks for watching! Its definitely fun getting to pick paint colors & all the additional items to match such as outlets, light switches, blinds...& more! We appreciate you sharing your comment! 😎👍🔧🔩
Extremely simple and extremely educational video! Thank you.
We really appreciate that, thanks for watching. 😎👍
Great video, I subscribed for more. Love when a video gets right to business. Lots of useful, easy to understand information. Thank you.
nicknack
Thanks for sharing your thoughts & we love RUclips! 😀👍
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Super helpful, straight to it and easy explanations. Thank you
Good morning, just poured a cup of coffee and am sitting down to answer any and all questions for the DIY community.
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Thank you for this video...Very Helpful!! Well made and understandable.
Lee McCoy
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Thanks for this video, your explanations were thorough and clear. Very helpful!
Ali Yanez
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Thank you, excellent explanation.
Good morning, we appreciate that. Thank YOU for watching. 😎👍
Very great video and lesson. Now I am very clear on how to tell what amp each outlet is running. Thanks a million, Michael! ~Best Wishes, Willie
Wombat Willie
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Thank you for posting, it helped me tremendously!
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Very helpful! Next question: Is there a significant difference in quality between a two 15 amp outlets that makes it worth spending up to 60-70 cents more per outlet? Or: why should I spend more for a 15 amp outlet plug?
Cat Leonard
Thanks for watching & sharing your question. We have always been happy & satisfied with the Standard Outlets shown in this video.
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perfect explanation - thank you
We appreciate that, thanks for watching. 👍
If you have a 20 amp circuit it is not necessary to use 20 amp receptacle. NEC code say that you can you 15amp receptacle on a 20amp circuit but not a 20amp receptacle on a 15amp circuit. If you have taken apart a receptacle they sometimes have the slot for a 20 amp sideways prong hole on the internals. 20amp receptacles cost more and very few devices besides air conditioning window units use them.
SirDishs
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The only reason for a 20 amp receptical would be if a piece of equipment requires a dedicated 20 amp circuit and only one single outlet, not a typical duplex outlet.
D
Great video, easy to understand , Thank You
We are honored to read this, thank you.
Straight and to the point. Good job!
Robert W. Gordon
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Thanks for the easy to understand explanation.
Trish Voss
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Thanks. Wasn't sure if I needed 15 or 20 amp GFCI in my kitchen. Now I know for sure.
hal9thou001
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Hal9thou001. What do you know for sure? You can install 15 or 20 amp duplex GFCI receptacles in your kitchen. At least that is what is in the National Electrical Code.
Thumbs up and big thanks for clearly explaining the difference.
whez08
What’s up whez08, thanks for checking out the video and sharing your comment! We appreciate it!
Definitely let us know how your DIY project goes. Let us know if you have any questions we are here to help!
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Also below is a link to our Appliance/Home Repair Video PlayList. It contains several videos that you can benefit from including additional videos on changing outlets, lights, and many more! Check those out! 😎👍🔧🔩
ruclips.net/p/PLjCXOz8TSkZmG-ZbhhKPj4Vh3K3MDPXii
Great video. I have a treadmill and the manual states that I must have a 15A circuit. The circuits on my board all read 20, a couple of them 50 and 10. Can I plug my treadmill into the outlet that traces back to a circuit that's 20?
Thanks for watching, you can. 😎👍
My breaker box is old, and does not indicate how many amps each breaker is. Previous 'DIY' electricians may have used the wrong outlets. Was hoping for a way to determine how many amps the circuit is from the outlet using a multimeter (or some other tool), or without removing the panel door, or at the very least, for this kind of scenario to be addressed. That did not happen in this video.
1:39… WoW… my panel has the same handwriting as whoever wrote on your panel labels. 😆
Thanks for watching & how cool is that. 😲
We appreciate you watching. Let us know if you have any questions.
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That’s exactly what I needed - great video!
Good morning, that’s great to hear. Thanks for watching. 👍
Thank you for letting me know what to look for. I'm needing to know for use of outdoor extension cord use.
Chris Burrows
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Liked this video for teaching the differences.
Deborah Martin
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Thank you! I was thinking of moving my refrigerator and now I see i need to move it to a place near a 20 amp outlet due prong configuration of the refrigerator plg.
Em Es
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Any device with that type of plug should be used on a dedicated circuit with a single outlet for that device.
extremely helpful video, good job. I never comment
That means the absolute world to us, no joke. Hearing you were willing to leave a comment really helps continue to motivate us to keep filming these helpful DIY videos. 😁👍
Many more helpful videos to come.
Keep up the good work@@DIYwithMichaelBorders
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Hello! I’m not sure if you are still responding to messages on here. Your video was so helpful and informative but I have a personal situation that is confusing me. I tested all my breakers and the one that corresponds to the outlets im planning to change is a 20 amp circuit but the outlets in them appear to be 15amp receptacles?! They don’t have the T shaped neutral side. Honestly my apartment building is very old and outdated, many of the outlets in my apartment look horrible and have scorch marks on them so I wouldn’t put it past my landlord to have installed 15amps in a 20amp circuit, but my question is is this possible? And I’m replacing the outlets should I get the 20amp receptacles or is 15amp okay? These particular outlets I want to replace are in my bedroom and bathroom, they are very loose and plugs fall out all the time from them. So yeah hopefully you or someone sees this and has some insight 😅
Good morning, just poured a cup of coffee and am sitting down to answer any and all questions for the DIY community.
We appreciate you reaching out to us and yes, we are still responding to all questions and comments.
This will be personal preference however installing 15amp outlets on your 20amp circuit is ok however not the opposite. A 20amp outlet must not be installed on a 15amp circuit.
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Very helpful video! Thank you for making it very easy to find the information that I needed!
Johnny Caputo
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Thank you! Just what I needed!
You are very welcome, so happy to help. Hope all is well.
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Very helpful! Thanks very much.!
Jana Wilson
Jana, thanks for checking out the video and sharing your comment! We appreciate it! That’s awesome! We are glad you enjoyed the video. 😃
Definitely let us know how your DIY project goes. Let us know if you have any questions, we are here to help!
Please subscribe to the channel and turn on your RUclips notification Bell 🛎 that would be awesome thanks again!
Also below is a link to our Appliance/Home Repair Video PlayList. It contains several videos that you can benefit from including additional videos on changing outlets, lights, and many more! Check those out! 😎👍🔧🔩
ruclips.net/p/PLjCXOz8TSkZmG-ZbhhKPj4Vh3K3MDPXii
Using a 20 amp receptacle with a 15 amp breaker should be OK because the breaker and Wire size of 14 AWG will only limit the (current) Amps of 15 amps total. Most circuits in the home have many receptacles on one circuit like about 7 to 10 but all will be allowed at any one time will be 15 amps in total till the breaker trips. I read that 15 or 20 amp receptacles can be used on a 20 amp circuit but can't figure out why the 15 amp receptacle can be used with the higher breaker rating. read this i the Ontario hydro code book, it seems to be reversed like it should be 20 amp receptacle used on a 15 amp circuit with 14 gauge wire would be OK because the breaker would trip before the current exceeded the limits of the wire and receptacle.
Thanks for watching john, we definitely understand your thoughts & we really appreciate you sharing.
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I understand your reasoning in your first sentence, but the 20 amp receptacle is a designation that this is a 20 amp circuit with 12 gauge wire indicating that higher power appliances are ok to use. Excessive tripping is bad for the circuit and can weaken the breaker over time. I wouldn't recommend using a 15 amp residential grade duplex receptacle on a 20 amp circuit, even though it's allowed by code and probably wouldn't be a problem. However, a 15 amp "spec grade" is equivalent in durability, quality, and current capacity to a similar grade 20 amp receptacle and is recommended for residential use.
All of my outlets are 15a but my breaker panel shows all the circuit breakers are labeled as 20. Does this mean all my circuits are 20a? I am installing a GFCI should I get a 20a since it is capable?
Thanks for watching. If your panels circuit shows 20amp, then installing a 20amp outlet is recommended.
Hope this helps! 😎👍🔧🔩
Thank you for making this video! Very helpful and very informative!
Dave Aaron
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Very informative
Hey there & we appreciate that. Welcome to the DIY Raptor Club, enjoy your night.
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I've got a freeze dryer that requires a 20 amp dedicated circuit and uses a NEMA 5-20 plug. I have a washing machine nearby that is on a dedicated 20 amp circuit but has a standard outlet about 6 ft from the breaker box. I realize I can't use the two at the same time but can I simple change the outlet to a NEMA 5-20 outlet or does this require special wiring?
Second question, I would rather put the freeze dryer in the opposite corner of the room about 12 ft max from the washing machine outlet but that side only has a shared 15 amp outlet. Is it safe to make a 15-25 ft drop cord rated for 20 amps with a NEMA 5-20 plug on one end and standard plug on the other to run to the washing machine outlet or would both ends of the cord need to be NEMA 5-20?
Good information
Thank you! 😎👍
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Just the info I needed. Thank you.
Awesome, great to hear. Thanks for watching & sharing this. 👍
my outlets don't have the T but my circuit breaker switches say 20 so what do I go by?
Hey Morris, thanks for watching. We appreciate you reaching out to us. You probably have 15amp outlets. This is not incredibly uncommon for 15amp outlets to be fed into the 20amp circuit however we recommend replacing all 15amp outlets to 20amp outlets.
A 15amp is only going to perform at 15amp specs...meaning if it try’s to take on more amps, it will overheat & fail.
The unfortunate thing in your case is that the option is definitely there...since you most likely have 15amp outlets fed into 20amp circuit.
It’s best to have your outlets match your circuit. Hope this helps & please keep us posted on your project.
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Very professional video!
Scott Foy
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Very helpful. If I have a 15 amp outlet (I know this now thanks to your video) next to a pole rocker switch for my lights (in the bathroom) is it safe to assume the rocker switch needs to be 15 amp? My breaker box is a nightmare thanks to a couple electricians, hot tub guys and solar company mis-labeling my circuits so that will take some time to sort out. Thanks!
Alana Forrest
Thanks for watching & we hope the video helped. Great question & it’s personal preference...meaning most electricians like to see the outlet match the breaker...
We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀
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It's doesn't matter whether the switch is 15 or 20 amps. It's only a light switch. But you should not put a 20 amp receptacle on a 15 amp circuit.
Thanks!
You are very welcome, thanks for watching.
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Excellent information 👍👍👍
We really appreciate that. Welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. Let us know if you have any questions. Enjoy your day MARTIN.
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The little things that matter in life😎😎😎
So true 😎👍
Thanks for watching, hope all is well.
thanks. SO you can still plug in a regular device with the 2 vertical prongs into a 20 amp outle so its backwards compatible? or will you damage the device if you plug in a normal plug into a 20 amp outlet?
Thanks for watching & yes you can, it is A ok & within proper limits & code. Let us know if you have any questions.
Hope all is well. 😎👍🔧🔩
what's that plug with one horizontal, one vertical and one half oval but DOES NOT fit into any receptacle in this video? in other words it has the vertical and horizontal the other way compared to the one at 2:51
Is there any way to check via wire guage behind the receptacle if its the correct wire guage?
Thanks for watching, there is. Below are a few options. If interested in purchasing this product, visit our Amazon affiliate link below. I earn from qualifying purchases.
amzn.to/49MWHDh
amzn.to/3UaPKWX
MAKE SURE 100% OF ELECTRICAL POWER BEING FED TO THAT RECEPTACLE IS TURNED OFF FOR SAFETY PURPOSES! 🧰
Excellent just what I needed
Question for you. My breaker says it’s a 20 amp circuit but the plugs on that 20 amp circuit are all 15 amps. Do they need to be 20 amp plugs or are 15 amp plugs on a 20 amp circuit ok?
Gino20202
Thanks for watching & we hope you enjoyed the video. That is A-Ok. You just cannot have it the other way around... meaning 20 amp receptacles connected to a 15 amp circuit.
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Thanks for the video. Your audio needs work though, but the video info is great and to the point. I'd get more signal in your audio, and possibly use lavalier mics when talking at a distance rather than relying on the mic on a camera.
spacep0d
Thanks for watching & we hope you enjoyed the video. We appreciate the advice. That’s awesome & helpful. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀
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Thank you !
My circuit breaker indicates “20” but the the actual outlet does NOT have the “T” hole. Now what? How do I know for sure? Is the breaker incorrect or did someone installed the 15 amp outlet incorrectly? The outlet is NOT GFCI plug.
Thanks for watching & we appreciate you reaching out to us. You have 15amp outlets. This is not incredibly uncommon for 15amp outlets to be fed into the 20amp circuit.
A 15amp is only going to perform at 15amp specs...meaning if it try’s to take on more amps, it will overheat & fail.
The unfortunate thing in your case is that the option is definitely there...since you have 15amp outlets fed into 20amp circuit.
It’s best to have your outlets match your circuit. Hope this helps & please keep us posted on your project.
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Very helpful, than you!
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club Crystal. We appreciate you sharing this, enjoy your night.
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I have a heat press that trips the breaker once it reaches 300 degrees, but turning it back on and leaving it on for the rest of my pressing seems to be ok. It's supposedly a 15 amp device, it's on a 15 amp breaker, 15 amp outlet, and the only device on the line. Do you suppose going to a 20 amp circuit (breaker/in the wall wire/outlet) would fix this problem? Also what's up with my garage having a single 15 amp breaker going to an outlet, and there's like 3 other outlets that piggyback off of it? People who installed it were just lazy? There's a couple empty slots on the panel they could easily have tapped..
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. In the event that you are interested in converting your 15amp circuit to a 20amp circuit, we recommend having that done by a licensed technician.
They will ensure it is converted to the required level of passing proper code. Hope this helps.
I am trying to replace a 15 amp outlet in my garage to a 20 amp. My breaker switch have a “20” on it so I’m assuming it is a 20 amp circuit. What else can I do to make sure that the outlet I’m replacing can run a 20 amp outlet?
John Roque
Thanks for watching & sharing your comment John. The next process you can take is actually contacting an Electrician & having them inspect system.
If your panels circuit shows 20amp, then installing a 20amp outlet is recommended.
Hope this helps! Keep us posted!
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This would be a good opportunity to talk about wiring gauge. Surprised the video didn’t mention the guage of wire needed for 20amp circuits…
I have 3 GFI that will not re-set. one inside and 2 outside, should I go by what's on the circ breaker or should I take them out and look for the type on the GFI amp. my gut says that they are all 15 amp in the house not sure about the outside ones.
Sean Royal
Thanks for watching. Are they not working properly anymore? Keep us posted. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀
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Very helpful, thank you!
Fasyle
You are very welcome Fasyle! We are happy to hear the video helped! Let us know if you have any questions, we are here to help!
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Great content! Thanks
Anchorblahzay
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Thx!!
Happy to help & thanks for watching. Enjoy your day.
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What if my circuit breaker says it’s 20 amps but the face plate is a 15 😟
Hi, what if the circuit breaker indicated 20 amps but the receptacles are 15amps? Is that dangerous? Noticed that in my new home and thinking wether I should replace those receptacles with 20amps ones. Thanks.
Ion Mardari
Thanks for watching, we always recommend having your outlet receptacles match your circuit breaker. Hope this helps.
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It's perfectly safe, and the NEC code allows either a 15 OR a 20 amp receptacle on 12 gauge (20 amp) wiring. 20 amp receptacles are really for unusual appliances that use 20 amps. 20 amp appliances are something like a welder, or a commercial grade waffle iron, or some sort of extreme blender. IMO (and many electricians as well) it's really not necessary to put a 20 amp outlet on a 20 amp circuit, unless you have some special need for it. Why this youtube channel recommends it is unclear.
Thank you
Great video!! Thank you so much!!
You are very welcome Patti, thanks for watching & sharing this.
Hope all is well with you and your family.
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I am trying to add a mini fridge to my home office, but the power trips if I do. Is there any way I can increase the load my home office can take?
What if the T shape of the plug is on the opposite side?
Thanks for watching, that’s not too incredibly uncommon… just means whoever installed the outlet installed it in the opposite position.
@@DIYwithMichaelBorders no the plug has the T on the other side.
@@mysapho
Thanks for the reply, chances are the receptacle is upside down.
Is the any letters or numbers on outer portion of receptacle that are upside down?
I have a 15 amp receptical on a 20 amp breaker. Should I replace with a 15 amp receptical?
RonJohn
Thanks for watching & we hope the video helped. Great question & it’s always best to have the receptacle match the breaker.
We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀
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Hi, Thanks for the info. If I have a 20amp circuit with 12/2 romex wire, can you a use a 15 amp outlet plug?
My Jj
Thanks for watching, great question. We recommend using a 20amp outlet to match your breaker. Keep us posted on your project.
Let us know if you have any questions. Us fellow DIY’ers need to stick together. Many more helpful videos to come!
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if I have a 20amp circuit, but a 15amp plug, can I use an adapter?
Thanks for watching, what adapter are you interested in?
33 people were “shocked” by this video.
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Can I test an outlet with DMM to determine whether it’s 15A or 20A ??
Thanks for watching & welcome to the DIY Raptor Club. It’s even simpler than that. 😀
We recommend going to your circuit breaker panel and if the breaker says 15, it’s a 15amp circuit. If the breaker says 20, it’s a 20amp circuit.
In regards to receptacle, if it has the (T-shaped) slots...it’s a 20amp receptacle. Hope this helps.
Thanks again for watching, hope all is well with you and your family.
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What if my outlets arent T shaped but in my panel they are marked 20 amps?
bLOsK_323
Thanks for watching & sharing your comment. What kind of outlets are currently installed?
Keep us posted, we are here to help!
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Thanks this helps a great deal
SKYONE DESIGNERS PLUS
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Question, we're working in an old house, and the panel has 20amp breaker running the 14/2 AWG, so I've installed 15amp rated outlet, weird thing, pluggin anything into it burned Makita charger, and shop vac, I'm trying to brainstorm what's causin it...
John Smith
Thanks for watching & sharing your experience John, that’s a great question!
It will need to be a 15amp breaker. A 14-2 is not rated for a 20amp breaker. This is very important because if wired as is, it’s very possible that a wire can melt if it draws too much power, & that’s the last thing you want! 😲
Hope this helps! Keep us posted!
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are the numbers on the electric panel indicating the amp of each outlet? I just checked mine and some are 15, some 20 and others 30. 20-30 are usually for cooktop and dryer etc, is that expected?
Yes, the actual number that's stamped on each circuit breaker is what you're looking for. You must match that particular circuit breaker with the outlet that you want to swap and that's how you'll know what size to buy on the new receptacle. The lower numbers are for things that don't draw lots of power (light switches, receptacles), and the higher numbers (30, 40, 50, 60amps) are for large appliances like your dryer, range, central air, etc...
I have no access to circuit breakers, but need to know if I can pull 20 amps through an outlet when traveling(plugging in a van)...many 20 amp circuits have regular 15 amp outlets(no "T" cross} attached to them. Is there a device I can plug into it to safely determine if it is actually 20 amps? This is a very common problem....out of code, of course. For example, my brother's craptastic 1980's subdivision rented house has 20 amp circuits in the kitchen and laundry room, but the plugs do not have "T" cross outlets, just standard ones(the laundry room does have a proper 30 amp circuit outlet for the dryer, as well).
Thanks for watching & we appreciate you sharing this. It’s actually easier than that.
You will need to open up your household main circuit breaker panel and reference the titled items in relation to the circuit breaker number and there you can see which outlets are 20amp.
@@DIYwithMichaelBorders I guess I wasn't clear enough...when traveling in a camper van, I will have NO access to the circuit breaker boxes of places I plug into in many cases, but want to be able to know if it is a 20 amp circuit or a 15 amp one even if the outlet appears to be 15 amp only(or if it is only a 15 amp line with 20 amp outlets. That unfortunately happens a fair amount. Is there a way to do that? Any device I can carry with me? That is what I was trying to ask. Sorry for the confusion.
@@claycassin8437
Thanks for the reply, the tool does exist. LOWES or Home Depot are good places to go.
It will be an amp meter. This will be perfect. 😎👍
@@DIYwithMichaelBorders I am aware of those...I knew they could measure the amp load flowing in a circuit, but was unaware that they could determine the total amp capability of a circuit without having a load on it. interesting.
@@claycassin8437
Definitely a cool tool to have in your Toolbox. 👍
What if my outlet doesn’t have the T but that outlet has a 20a circuit. I checked my electrical panel and that outlet has a 20a.
Cliff DaRiff
Thanks for watching & we hope the video helped. It is perfectly ok & safe to insert a 15 amp plug into a 20 amp outlet...however it’s not ok nor safe to “install or wire” a 15 amp outlet into a 20 amp circuit. Hope this helps!
We really enjoy making these helpful videos for our fellow DIY’ers. Many more helpful videos to come! 😀
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That's normal and what I would expect. It's code compliant and you have a choice of either 15 or 20 amp receptacle. A 20 amp receptacle offers no advantage over a spec grade 15 amp. You may have the cheaper residential grade and may consider upgrading to spec grade at some point. They are slightly more expensive, but cheaper than 20 amp.
We got a new oven that recommends 16A plug but we only have a 15A one where the discarded oven use to draw power from. This new oven has a max power rating of 3kW and max current rating of 12.7A. Can I just use my my old 15A plug and wire with it? Thanks.
Sally L
Thanks for watching. Although it recommends a higher plug than 15amp, sounds like you took a look at your specifications inside your instructional and installation manual.
You located some valuable info. With the microwave having a max output of 12.7a, a 15a circuit should work & will still be to code. Hope this helps.
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DIY With Michael Borders Thanks for your prompt response. We got the new oven up and running today. Your reply gave us peace of mind that it would not blow up, as I was unsure and contemplating installing a socket that is next step up here in Australia ... a 20A one... Thanks again for your reply, we will stick to the 15A socket.
@@DIYwithMichaelBorders You may be forgetting the 80% rule. NEC says an circuit with multiple outlets, a single appliance can only use 80% of the rated amps for the circuit. So 15Amps*.8=12 amps, which is less than the appliance rated at 12.7. If, however, there's only one appliance plugged into the circuit, the appliance can use 100% of the capacity. So essentially if it's only the microwave plugged into the circuit, it's fine. If the microwave shares an outlet with something else, you're out of code. I suspect this is largely more about nuisance trips than any real safety concern.
Steve Sether
Thanks for watching Steve, we appreciate you taking the time to share this info.
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@@allesuye2551 The information you gave is for 240 volts, not 120 volts. A 16 amp device is European device! I hope you figured this out before you did it wrong.
Wait so will a 20 Amp circuit and receptacle allow a standard 15 Amp non t shaped plug?
Thanks for watching & you can plug-in normal electronics such as your phone charger and TV to a 20 amp outlet and circuit. Hope this helps.
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@@DIYwithMichaelBorders yes it does thank you. 👍
@@issaciams
You are very welcome. 😎👍🔧🔩
Very helpful!
Gary Urbik
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If I have a 15amp outlet can I buy a 20amp
Adapter then buy a 20amp strip or not a good idea?
Natural Gaming. I am not aware of an adapter that converts 20 amp 120 volt configuration to 15 amp 120 volt unless it is for an RV.
If you have a 20 amp breaker and #12 conductors, you can buy a 20 amp duplex or single receptacle and replace the 15 amp that you have. Full 20 amp power strips are way more expensive. Do you really need 20 amps or just more places to plug in?
Respectfully, Kevin
@@KevinCoop1 you raise a great point and no I’m just wondering
@@KevinCoop1 because I saw a 20 amp adapter but it’s probally supposed to go into a 20 amp plug am I right
@@NATURALGAMING Can you send me a link to the adapter you are talking about? I’m interested to see what it is. I designed electrical systems since 1983. The only thing that I have seen that utilizes 20 amp 120 volt plugs are very large copy machines in offices, and true 20 amp plug in strips. You might be able to find a small welder. Almost everything 120 volts has 15 amp plugs.
Respectfully, Kevin
@@KevinCoop1 alright Kevin thanks I’ll show you :)
"How to tell if your NEW WORK outlets are 15 or 20A with your perfectly labeled circuit panel"
Thanks for watching, have you visually checked each outlet design to determine which are 15amp and which are 20amp?