Quote:
Originally Posted by Uberschaf
It's the breaker size that determines the current. If the breaker is rated 20 amp you're good to go. If it's 15 you're still safe. Receptacles are on 20 amp breakers, lighting is on 15 amp breakers. You may have been hit by lightning.
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It's the wire size that determines the safe amount of current (amperage) that can flow through it without overheating. The circuit breaker MUST be matched to the wire gauge size. In a typical residential application a 20A breaker will control a 12awg circuit, a 15A breaker will control a 14awg circuit, assuming the wire (cable) is ran through free air. NEVER change the gauge of wiring within the same circuit AND that includes using a receptacle that is amp rated LESS than the existing wire/breaker.
These are basic principles. If not understood correctly a licensed electrician MUST be employed.