skip to main content

Electrical Wiring

15AMP Breaker used instead of 20AMP -ok?

16 years ago

We just had an electric gate installed that extends across our driveway. I noticed that the installer used a 15 amp breaker switch to connect to for power (the gate is the only device on this breaker). In looking at the manual last night the installation instructions call for a 20 AMP breaker (the wording is - "Minimum: 20-amp breaker switch per gate motor needed"). In reviewing this site it looks like the size of the breaker is detemined by the size of the wire used - is this correct? Also, can I assume that if the breaker does not trip I am ok? In other words, I assume a breaker switch that is too small will just constantly trip vs. a breaker that is too large may never trip. Again he was the installation person, not an electrician. Thanks in advance!

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (5)

davidandkasie
16 years ago
if it called for a 20, MINIMUM, then you shoudl call them and require them to put it on one with proper sized wiring. for a 20A circuit, you use 12 guage wire. if it is a long run then you may have to even go up to 10 or even 8 if it is REAL long.
jason1083
16 years ago
I think there is a note somewhere in the NEC about following manufacturers instructions. Basically if they specify a breaker size you are supposed to use that size breaker.
Related Discussions
Test double pole 20 amp breaker
Q
Comments (10)
Sorry "bus driver" don't know what the hell you were talking about but David was saying to take a temporary lighting socket that comes with wires and to take the White wire on his light to the ground/neutral bar and then take the Black lead to phase A of his breaker and the light bulb will light( if there is power). Then take the black lead to phase B(the other terminal on the breaker) and if there is power there the light bulb will light. And no the 20A breaker is not to much juice to blow the bulb. Don't know what the hell you were talking about but the other post were telling him to buy a cheap VOLTAGE tester to check if he had 120v to ground per phase then check phase to phase to see if he had 240v. That means the breaker is good and its hooked up to 2 differnt phases. Now if he bought a tester with a setting for continuity and set it to that and touched it to 120v-240v either it would blow an internal fuse in the tester itself or blow up the tester. ***Highly agree with "petey", If you don't even have a decent VOLTAGE tester you shouldn't be in a panel.***
...See More
Basement GFCI & 20 amp receptacles
Q
Comments (6)
Only unfinished basement receptacles need GFCI. If you are finishing off your workshop they are not strictly required. Here is the definition of basement: (10) "Basement" means that portion of a building that is partly or completely below grade plane. A basement shall be considered as a story above grade plane and not a basement where the finished surface of the floor above the basement is: (a) More than 1829 mm (six feet) above grade plane; (b) More than 1829 mm (six feet) above the finished ground level for more than 50% of the total building perimeter; or (c) More than 3658 mm (twelve feet) above the finished ground level at any point. Also see "mezzanine" and "story."
...See More
15 and 20amp Circuit Breaker
Q
Comments (3)
...SAFETY SAFETY SAEFTY 10 THINGS...12 THINGS..irrelevant home in on the no continous loads over 80% . .and of seldom do we turn on everything at one time . .but modern era homes DO run a much higher loads everything you can buy has an rating on it that will tell you either amps or wattage . . .Google for a Ohms chart for the conversions if you're experience level is low . .arm your self with one of the Color..residential wiring books at the Big Box Store they are a wealth of knowledge good luck . .let us know what you work out ?
...See More
14-2 and 12-2 wire on 20 amp circuit code clarification
Q
Comments (16)
The short answer to the question that was asked is that the breaker in the panel protects the branch circuit wiring; it is not intended to protect what's connected to that circuit. Anything that is connected to the circuit, and isn't capable of sustaining the full rated capacity of the circuit, is expected to provide its own protection if it is deemed necessary. That's why most electronics and small appliances have their own fuses, breakers, or fusible links, often rated substantially below the capacity of the branch circuit. Lighting has historically been cut a bit of slack in building and electrical codes. That's because there isn't really that much that can go bad wrong with an incandescent lighting fixture. (Well, at least since the days of the screw-in outlet adaptors...) So they usually aren't required to have overcurrent protection. The light bulb generally serves as its own protection; if it shorts internally, whatever part is shorted melts and opens the circuit. If it somehow does managed to become shorted (say, some kid drops a penny in the empty socket), usually the 18-gauge zip cord melts somewhere internally, often at the plug end, before the whole thing gets too hot. I've seen that happen. And I should point out that it's not a requirement in the U.S. for an appliance to be UL listed in order to be legal for sale. There's a huge number of desk and table lamps on the market that are not UL listed.
...See More
bus_driver
16 years ago
Electric gates are not standard fixtures in "Poverty Row". Back in my poverty days, I dreamed of having cash so that I could purchase "Quality workmanship". This illustrates that quality is an elusive commodity, even if affordable. Article 110.3(B), 2005 NEC.
wired_lain
16 years ago
Is this "installer" permitted to do electrical work in your location? In many areas, the wiring for this gate opener would have to be done by a licensed electrician and would have to be permitted and inspected by the building department. You should also be concerned about voltage drop. A 15 Amp circuit is allowed to use smaller wire than a 20 Amp circuit. The smaller wire causes more voltage drop under load, which can cause motors to overheat.
gilshultz
16 years ago
The way I see it is you no longer have any warranty. It works but???? If the instructions say to use a 20A circuit then that is what you should use. The manufacturer warrants it only if installed properly and that is not proper per the instruction manual. What the manufacturer requires a 20 amp breaker and #12 wire. If a heaver wire is used that is ok but not necessary if the run is under 150 - 200 feet.

Related Stories

COLOR 7 Inky Colors to Use Instead of Black

By Toronto Interior Design Group

Is black too stark and dramatic for your taste? Try navy, charcoal, chocolate or another alternative for a deep, moody space with character

KITCHEN DESIGN Kitchen Confidential: Amp Up Your Storage With Pullouts

By Affecting Spaces Design Studio

See 12 types of cabinet pullouts that make your cooking and cleaning items easier to find and use

FURNITURE Why It's OK to Hate Your New Custom Sofa

By Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer

It takes time to get used to bold new furniture, but dry your tears — the shock can be good for you. Here's what to expect

LIGHTING Amp Up Your Room With Colorful Lampshades

By Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer

Make a big impact minus the big cash fork-over by swapping white shades for ones in headier colors

DECORATING GUIDES How to Use Mirrors for More Light and Style

By Laura Gaskill

A well-placed mirror gives a room sparkle, surprise and a bright, open feeling. Here are 15 clever ideas to try in your own house

FEEL-GOOD HOME 12 Very Useful Things I've Learned From Designers

By Becky Harris

These simple ideas can make life at home more efficient and enjoyable

LIVING ROOMS Room of the Day: An Artful Use of Bold Color

By Becky Harris

A mix of styles, eras and hues creates a living room that’s luxe and comfortable

KITCHEN DESIGN Using White Marble: Hot Debate Over a Classic Beauty

By Beth Dotolo, ASID, RID, NCIDQ

Do you love perfection or patina? Here's how to see if marble's right for you

REMODELING GUIDES When to Use Engineered Wood Floors

See why an engineered wood floor could be your best choice (and no one will know but you)

INSIDE HOUZZ Using Houzz: Create a Home To-Do List

By Becky Harris

See how to use an ideabook to keep track of your home projects this year

Sponsored

More Discussions

Glow effect on portico ceiling

14

undercounter power strip and lighting

3

Does NEC require a DUPLEX receptacle in kitchen?

2

Killing electric outlet behind cabinet

4

Why would only one outlet be working and no others on the same breaker

4