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Yes. Check to see if the wire rating printed on the outside covering of the wire in question. Most 12AWG wire is rated for 20 amps. Wire insulation is rated 300, 600 and 1000 volts.

In case you are having trouble with the math for calculating amps x volts (120, 240V etc) = watts, watts divided by volts = amps

Code will let you load up a conductor up to 80%. Full load on a # 12 wire is 16 amps.

12 Gauge copper can be used for 20A or less

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βˆ™ 12y ago
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βˆ™ 13y ago

Yes. A 12 AWG wire can safely carry 20 amps. Since it can carry 20 amps, it can certainly carry 15 amps safely as well.

However...

Sometimes a 15 amp outlet will be unable to handle the extra size of the 12 AWG wire.

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βˆ™ 12y ago

It is massive overkill and expensive to do so since you only need 14 AWG. It will certainly handle the load, but may be a problem with the connection points. You could create a hazard with a bad connection. Suggest you invest in 14 AWG.

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βˆ™ 13y ago

Yes, over sized wire with a smaller breaker is quite common in the electrical trade. Usually this occurs in circuits where voltage drop could be a problem.

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βˆ™ 12y ago

Yes. #12 is good for 20 amp or less

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Q: Can 8 gauge wire be used on a 15 amp breaker?
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Related questions

Is it safe to use 10 gauge wire on a 20 amp breaker for a microwave?

No, 10 gauge wire requires the use of a 30 amp breaker. A 20 amp breaker is only used on 12 gauge wire.


What gauge wire is used on a 20 amp breaker?

AWG 12.


What size breaker should be used on a 20 amp motor?

30 amp breaker with #10 gauge copper wire


What gauge wire used for a fifteen amp breaker?

AWG # 14 copper.


Can 13 gauge wire be connected to a 20 amp breaker?

No, it is not recommended to connect 13 gauge wire to a 20 amp breaker. The wire gauge should match the amp rating of the breaker to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards. In this case, a 20 amp breaker should be used with at least 12 gauge wire.


Can you use 10 gauge wire to connect a 2 15 amp outlets to a 30 amp breaker?

No, it is not safe to use 10 gauge wire with a 30 amp breaker as the wire is not rated for that high of a current. It is important to use the correct wire gauge that matches the breaker amperage to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards. For a 30 amp breaker, you should use at least 10 gauge wire.


Can you run 8 gauge wire on a 50 amp breaker?

No, you should not run 8 gauge wire on a 50 amp breaker. The wire size should be compatible with the amperage rating of the breaker to ensure safety and prevent overheating. For a 50 amp breaker, you should use a minimum of 6 gauge wire.


Can you use 14-3 wire on a 20amp breaker?

No. A 20 amp breaker needs 12 gauge wire.


14 gauge wire can be on what size circuit breaker?

A 14 gauge wire is typically used on a 15 amp circuit breaker. It is not recommended to use a larger circuit breaker with a smaller wire size as this can create a fire hazard.


Can a 20 amp breaker with 12 gauge wire be used for recessed lighting?

Yes. In the US at least.


What is the wire size required for 1800 watts for lamps?

14 gauge will handle it with a 15 amp breaker. If you use 12 gauge use a 20 amp breaker.


What gauge wire and amp breaker do you use on a stove dryer and hot water heater?

For a stove, use a 8 or 6 gauge wire with a 40 to 50 amp breaker. For a dryer, use a 10 or 8 gauge wire with a 30 amp breaker. For a hot water heater, use a 10 or 8 gauge wire with a 30 or 40 amp breaker. Be sure to consult local electrical codes and guidelines for specific requirements.