Do not put a 20 amp outlet on a 15 amp circuit. 15 amp circuits have 15 amp breakers and 14 gauge wire. The 20 amp circuit has 12 gauge wire and 20 amp breakers. It the current outlet is only 15 amps it should not be replaced with a 20 amp one. (You can tell the difference between 15 and 20 amp outlets as the 20 amp version has a perpendicular slot off each ground connection -- looks like a sideways "T".)
Outlet Question
Could not find category for outlets so I am asking here. What would be good outlets to change too? I had hospital grade from Home Depot 20 years ago but left them when I moved. Is there any good outlets for about $20 U.S. anyone can recommend? I don't want to go crazy but get something better than what is stock on homes built in the last 4 years. Any suggestions would be great!
Showing 2 responses by mlsstl
@snapsc -- regarding insurance coverage, I've been a commercial insurance broker for over 40 years. I know of no homeowners policy with an exclusion that voids coverage based on poor or faulty wiring. It is common for people to confuse policy language with underwriting considerations. For example, if an inspection reveals bad wiring, the insurance company will probably turn you down and not issue a policy, or cancel/non-renew an existing policy. However, once the policy is issued and in force, coverage is in place until the policy expires or is canceled. The only way to void coverage at that point is if you commit an intentional act (like arson.) Here's another example or policy coverage versus underwriting considerations -- drunk driving that causes an accident. Your auto policy will pay for the damage to your car and the damages & injuries you caused to a third party, even though drunk driving is against the law. However, after that, your insurance company will probably cancel you and many other insurance companies will refuse to offer coverage or charge a very high price.
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