What is a 20 Amp circuit ?




I have ran 3 dedicated lines in my house for the stereo from the panel. I have 200 amp service in the house. Are these lines 20 amp?

I am no electrician , so can you tell me what constitutes a 20 amp line.

Thanks
moonguy
The 200 ampere service is the current capacity of the main box that services everything in your house. A 20 amp circuit is a branch from that box that has a 20 amp breaker and at least 12 gauge wire to carry that amount of current.

Most of the circuits in your kitchen and bathrooms should be 20 amp.

Michael
...oops...

...and which has a 20-amp outlet on its end. Otherwise it's a 15-amp circuit.
.
If you are no electrician and are asking this question I hope you have had your work inspected by qualified electrician. Your insurance company would be concerned.
Jeff, actually a 20 amp outlet is NOT a requirement on a 20 A circuit (unless it's the only outlet on the circuit -- then it needs to be 20 A).

But I agree that for all practical purposes, if you're running a 20 amp circuit, you might as well be able to have items with a 20 amp plug be able to plug into it.

Michael