How do American 20 amp plugs/outlets safely carry more current than their 15 amp counterparts ? 1.61K viewsJanuary 3, 2024 Question89.84K June 6, 2019 0 Comments I’m referring specifically to the NEMA 5-20R socket. Obviously the neutral blade is larger and so is capable of carrying more current but the Live (Hot) blade is the same size as a 5-15 plug so how is it able to safely carry 20 amps ? In: Engineering 1 Answer ActiveNewestOldest Anonymous Posted June 6, 2019 0 Comments They have bigger wires. You have to use 12 gauge wires for a 20A outlet, whereas you can use 14 gauge wires for a 15A outlet. Register or Login
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