Can You Change a 15 Amp Breaker to a 20-Amp Breaker?
While you can technically replace a 15 amp breaker with a 20-amp breaker, this is only true in specific situations. If your home’s wiring doesn’t support this circuit breaker replacement, it can lead to potential fire hazards, tripped breakers, and other problems. Because of this, you should always discuss your plans for breaker replacements with a top-rated electrician before you make any changes.
The Short Answer: Not Without Checking Your Wiring
In 1910, only 10% of American homes were wired for electricity. While this figure jumped to around 70% by the 1930s, the electrical systems weren’t built to the same level as they are today. People didn’t have Nintendo Switches, smartphones, or heat pumps that ran off of electricity, so the systems were simpler.
Although electrical systems have improved significantly over time, older homes are designed for the appliances of yesteryear. Because of this, owners of older homes often have to update their breakers so that they can safely use high-powered appliances and electrical devices. However, switching to higher amps may be a dangerous decision if you have older electrical wiring.
Think of your electrical lines like a two-lane highway. If you try to fit thousands of cars on this narrow stretch of road, you’ll experience traffic congestion and car accidents.
Your wiring operates around the same concept. If the existing wires can’t handle a 20-amp breaker, you will experience tripped breakers, fire hazards, ground faults, and short circuits.
To determine what your electrical systems can handle, start by looking at the wires. If you have 12 AWG copper or larger, you can safely install 20-amp breakers. When your home has 14 AWG copper wires or aluminum wires, you cannot switch to upgraded breakers. The only way to safely upgrade your breakers in this situation is by completely rewiring your home.
When Can You Upgrade to a 20-Amp Breaker?
You can only upgrade your 15 amp breaker to a larger breaker when the following situations are true.
- You have at least 12 AWG copper wire.
- The breaker panel is able to switch from a 15 amp to a 20-amp breaker.
- Your existing switches, outlets, and devices are already rated for 20 amps.
- You don’t have problems with ground faults and tripped breakers. If you upgrade with existing electrical issues, this will only worsen the problem.
Why Do People Want To Upgrade?
People invest in circuit breaker replacements for many different reasons. If you live in an older home, you may simply need to update your electrical systems to match modern electrical demands. Alternatively, you may need to upgrade because of a new appliance or device. Learn signs you need to upgrade and replace your circuit breakers in your home.
Upgrades are a wise decision if you’re setting up a workshop or installing a generator. Basically, you’ll need a better circuit breaker if you plan on pulling more power from the system.
Better Electrical Solutions To Keep Your Home and Family Safe
There are multiple techniques you can use to accommodate higher electrical demands. When you call us for an initial inspection, we’ll review your current systems and determine the safest options for your home.
Add a New 20-Amp Circuit
If you are getting a new fridge or setting up a workshop, updating your existing systems may not be the best course of action. Instead, it may be easier to set up an entirely new circuit for the added devices. Any new outlets or wiring will automatically be installed with the right capacity, ensuring a safe, efficient electrical update.
Distribute the Load
Sometimes, the only way to install a 20-amp circuit is by rewiring your home. Rather than invest in a major electrical project, you can distribute the load instead.
For example, some people set up their kitchen so that multiple appliances are running on the same breaker. This can overload the system and trip the breaker. Instead, move your appliances and electrical devices so that they are distributed among different breakers.
Upgrade the Entire Circuit
In the ideal circumstances, you already have wiring that can handle 20-amp breakers. If this is the case, we can simply install a 20-amp circuit and move on.
What the Electrical Code Says
Under the National Electric Code (NEC), your conductor capacity must match the breaker you are using. This means you cannot use a 20-amp breaker with 14 AWG copper. Oversized breakers are prohibited because they are more likely to trip, overheat, and start a fire.
The NEC specifically says that you are allowed to upgrade your breaker if your electrical systems will support the change. This means all of the outlets, wiring, and switches must have the same capacity as the new breaker.
Learn More About Making Electrical Changes to Your Home
Getting a breaker replacement is an important way to improve the functionality of your home’s electrical systems. However, this task should always be left to the professionals. Improperly installed panels or oversized breakers can end up being dangerous for your loved ones. By working with an experienced company, you can achieve better peace of mind.
At Mister Sparky, we can help install, repair, and replace all of your electrical systems. Over the years, we’ve developed a reputation for giving Lakeland homeowners and businesses the best electrical services in the industry.
Learn more about how we can help with your breaker replacement by visiting our website today.
Don’t put up with any malarky, call Mister Sparky!