breaker size for 12 gauge wire

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whoazone

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• Jul 15, 2008

• #1

What is the largest breaker I should use on 12 gauge wire? How about 14 guage wire?

 

Jbfan74

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• Jul 15, 2008

• #2

whoazone said:

What is the largest breaker I should use on 12 gauge wire? How about 14 guage wire?

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#12=20 amp breaker
#14=15 amp breaker

 

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whoazone

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• Jul 15, 2008

• #3

Can 10 gauge wire handle a 30 amp breaker?

 

Speedy Petey

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• Jul 15, 2008

• #4

whoazone said:

Can 10 gauge wire handle a 30 amp breaker?

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Basically, yes.

 

Mike Swearingen

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• Jul 16, 2008

• #5

30 amp breaker with 10g wire is usually what is used for an electric water heater.
Mike

 

hj

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• Jul 16, 2008

• #6

wires

Are you asking for a specific appliation, or just fishing for information?

 

pudge565

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• Jul 17, 2008

• #7

If using ROMEX® those answers are correct but if its not ROMEX® it depends on the wire insulation type and if it needs to be derated.

 

Last edited by a moderator: Dec 7, 2011

Chris75

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• Jul 17, 2008

• #8

pudge565 said:

If using ROMEX® those answers are correct but if its not ROMEX® it depends on the wire insulation type and if it needs to be derated.

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What are you talking about? Try reading 240.4(D)

 

Last edited by a moderator: Dec 7, 2011

pudge565

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• Jul 27, 2008

• #9

Yes my bad I don't know what I was thinking maybe flexible cords?

 

Johnny C

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• Oct 20, 2008

• #10

Breaker size for # 12 wire

You have not specified what type load and what type overcurrent protection is provided ie. (circuit breaker or fuse) the #12 conductor is supplying. If the circuit is supplying a motor load, the NEC allows a CB or Fuse rated greater than the conductor ampacity.