I just added two 20 amp circuits for my power amps using 10gauge with ground wire. I used Leviton 20A Heavy Duty Outlets. The difference is large. I have blacker back ground and smoother definition. I am also taking all appliances off the electric grid moving them to gas. This will create less demand for amps and to allow my stereo dedicated circuits to breathe more freely.
- ...
- 76 posts total
I have a question about using 30 amp breakers. There are people using 30 amp breakers for there 10 gauge wire and 110 circuits. The only way I know to use a 30 amp breaker and meet code is to use 3 wire instead of 2 and install a 4 plex so each side of the 4 plex is 15 amps. Is there another way to meet code and use a 30 amp breaker? IF you were only going to plug a big amp in would a 20 amp breaker be preferred? |
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 |
- 76 posts total