Can You Replace a 15 Amp Breaker with a 20 Amp Breaker?
The purpose of a circuit breaker is to shut off the flow of electricity when there’s more of it flowing than the wiring has the capacity to handle. This helps to prevent electrical fires. When you have a 15 amp breaker, it will shut down when more than 15 amps of electricity flows through it. If you need to be able to use more electricity, then it might be time to upgrade to a 20 amp breaker. However, it’s important to understand what’s involved in this kind of breaker replacement.
The Short Answer
Yes, it is possible to replace a 15 amp breaker with a 20 amp breaker, but there are a number of precautions you must take first. It’s not a good idea to do this as a DIY project. An electrician can replace the breaker safely.
What Wire Size Do You Need?
You need to upgrade from 14 AWG wire to 12 AWG wire when you’re going from a 15 amp breaker to a 20 amp breaker. This is a critical step in safe circuit replacement.
When Can You Upgrade to a 20 Amp Breaker?
You can upgrade to a 20 amp breaker when a professional has evaluated your electrical system and upgraded the wiring to 12 AWG. Learn the signs you need to replace and upgrade your circuit breaker.
Why People Try to Upgrade
There are a number of reasons you may want to upgrade to a 20 amp breaker.
- Your circuits keep tripping.
- You have new appliances that require more power than your old ones.
- You need to upgrade in order to stay on top of building codes.
Safer Alternatives to Consider
A circuit breaker replacement is not the only alternative. An electrician can do any of the below.
1. Add a New 20 Amp Circuit
This can be a much safer way to handle the increased demands you’re making on your wiring. If you’ve got a new appliance, this will give it its own dedicated circuit.
2. Redistribute Your Load
Another option is to move some of the electrical items that currently use the breaker that’s giving you problems to another breaker that does not get as much use.
3. Upgrade the Circuit Properly
Upgrading the circuit is still an option. It’s just very important that you do it properly. That means making sure that the wiring can handle the upgrade.
What Happens If You Ignore the Rules?
There are a number of potentially bad or hazardous outcomes.
- If you don’t upgrade the wiring from 14 to 12 AWG, you could burn your house down. When 20 amps of electricity flows through a 14 AWG wire, it may overheat, melt the wiring and ultimately cause an electrical fire.
- Even if the overloaded wiring doesn’t start a fire, it can cause electric shocks. In addition, it could damage the appliances that are connected to it.
- Your homeowner’s insurance might not cover damages associated with the faulty upgrade.
- You might also be in violation of building codes, and you could be fined.
Final Thoughts
Even if you’re a dedicated DIY type, electrical work can be complex and dangerous and is best done by an electrician. Whether you need to upgrade a circuit breaker or you need other electrical services, Mister Sparky has the expert electricians that can provide you with the right solutions. Don’t put up with any malarky, call Mister Sparky for all your electrical needs.