Upgrading wall outlets

Coxhaus,

If a 20 amp receptacle is used, (NEMA 5-20R), then a 20 amp breaker must be used. The minimum size copper wire would be #12 awg. If #10 awg copper wire is used the breaker still has to be a 20 amp.

If a 15 amp duplex receptacle is used, (NEMA 5-15R), then a 15 or 20 amp breaker can be used. If the branch circuit wire is 14 awg then a 15 amp breaker must be used.

The current carrying guts inside a 15, 20, and 30, amp breaker are the same. Only the trip units are different.

If there is a problem with nuisance tripping caused by inrush current of a power amp most breaker manufactures make a "High Magnetic" type breaker that will allow more lag time before tripping due to high inrush current.

Example:
http://ecatalog.squared.com/fulldetail.cfm?partnumber=QO120HM
.
Jim

I just added two 20 amp circuits for my power amps using 10gauge with ground wire. I used Leviton 20A Heavy Duty Outlets.
03-22-10: Coxhaus

Coxhaus,

Is the supporting back strap of the Leviton receptacle made of steel?
(Magnetic ferrous material)
.