My home has 2 wire along the shared wall, which meant the original outlets were 2-prong no ground. IE: if the original outlet receptacle does not have a 'ground' (3 prong) in an older building, then it has to be replaced with the existing 2 prong only with no ground. It is safest to only replace receptacles with whatever was installed in the lst place regardless of what the breaker amp. I would not waste the money on 20 amp interior receptacles. In addition, no cord connected appliance not fastened in place shall draw no more than 16 amps of current (80%) on a 20 amp circuit (Reference 2017 NFPA 70 Article 210.23(A)(1)).Įlectrical Code aside, I installed 20 amp spec grade receptacles in my garage for air compressors and tables saws due to their heavier construction. Any appliance that draws enough amps to require a 20 amp receptacle will be designed with a plug (male end) that has a horizontal blade to reject use in a 15 amp receptacle.Įither 15 amp or 20 amp rated receptacles are permitted on a 20 amp rated circuit (Reference 2017 NFPA 70 Table 210.21(B)(3)). It is important to realize that receptacles are installed without knowledge of the loads that will be plugged into them by occupants. The code calls this an 'individual branch circuit'.

A 20 amp rated circuit requires a 20 amp receptacle when the receptacle is the only receptacle on the circuit (Reference 2017 NFPA 70 Article 210.21(B)(1)).

20 amp t slot adapter