Quote:
Originally Posted by W9TR
See NFPA NEC 210.21(B)(3) Receptacle Ratings. The NEC speaks to this via a table in the section I referenced above.
You cannot use a 20A outlet on a branch circuit rated for 15A because the 20 A outlet allows equipment drawing more than 15A to be connected the branch circuit.
A 15A outlet limits the current to 12A as that is the maximum current that an appliance having a 15A plug can draw.
As a practical matter in your friend’s case it doesn’t make any difference since he is connecting low current equipment via the 20A outlet.
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The 20A outlet has the horizontal slot allowing a plug meant for both a typical 15A or higher 20A load whereas the 15A outlet only allows a plug meant for a max of 15A.
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