What are 20 amp plugs used for?

20 amp plugs, also known as NEMA 5-20 plugs, are high current plugs that allow more power to flow through them than standard 15 amp household plugs. They are commonly used for large appliances and tools that require more power such as air conditioners, electric dryers, freezers, table saws, and more.

When are 20 amp plugs required?

The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies when 20 amp plugs are required in home and commercial wiring. In general, they are required for any circuit that draws more than 15 amps continuously. Some common scenarios where 20 amp plugs are used include:

• Electric dryers – Most 240V electric dryers require a 20 amp circuit and plug.
• Air conditioners – Larger window and central A/C units often require 240V on a 20 amp circuit.
• Electric stoves & ovens – 240V hookups for large stoves and ovens are usually 20 amps.
• Pools & hot tubs – Swimming pool pumps, hot tub spas, and jet pumps often require 20 amp circuits.
• Freezers & refrigerators – Large freezers or combined refrigerator/freezers sometimes require 20 amps.
• Kitchen islands – Kitchen island circuits with multiple appliances require 20 amp circuits.
• Power tools – Table saws, large air compressors, welders and other large power tools often need 20 amp plugs.
• High power electronics – Gaming PCs, large servers, audio amplifiers and other electronics with high power draw.

In general, if an appliance or device draws more than 15 amps at 120 or 240 volts, it will require a dedicated 20 amp circuit with matching outlets. The higher current allows the device to safely draw more power from the electrical system.

Types of 20 amp plugs and outlets

There are a few common types of 20 amp plugs and outlets:

• NEMA 5-20 – The standard 20 amp plug for 120V circuits. It has one horizontal neutral prong and one vertical hot prong.
• NEMA 6-20 – A 20 amp 240V plug with two vertical hot prongs and a round ground prong. Used for 240V circuits.
• NEMA 14-20 – A 20 amp 240V plug with horizontal neutral and hot blades and a round ground. Often used for large appliances.

Matching outlets are available for each plug configuration. The neutral and hot prongs on 20 amp plugs are rotated 90 degrees compared to 15 amp NEMA 5-15 plugs to prevent them from being inserted into 15 amp outlets.

Wiring requirements for 20 amp circuits

20 amp circuits require thicker 12 AWG copper wiring instead of the 14 AWG wiring used on 15 amp branch circuits. This allows the wiring to safely handle the increase in electrical current without overheating.

All wiring on the circuit must use 12 AWG cable, including the outlet boxes, conduit, breakers, and wire connectors. A 20 amp breaker must also be used instead of a 15 amp breaker. Ground wiring is not increased in size since it does not carry current under normal conditions.

Can you plug a 15 amp plug into a 20 amp outlet?

Yes, you can safely plug a 15 amp appliance into a 20 amp outlet. The outlet is designed to accept both 15 amp and 20 amp plugs. However, you should never plug a 20 amp plug into a 15 amp outlet as this bypasses the safety of the 15 amp outlet’s design.

Can you plug a 20 amp plug into a 15 amp outlet?

No, you should never plug a 20 amp plug into a 15 amp outlet. The larger prongs on the 20 amp plug are designed so they cannot physically fit into a 15 amp outlet’s smaller slots. This prevents too much current from overloading the 15 amp circuit wiring which could lead to fires.

How to wire a 20 amp outlet

Wiring a new 20 amp outlet is a project that requires knowledge of electrical codes and experience working with household wiring. Safety should always come first when dealing with electrical wiring. Consider hiring an electrician if you lack experience. However, the general steps to wire a 20 amp outlet are:

1. Turn off power at the main breaker panel and verify it is off.
2. Run a 12 AWG circuit from the panel to the outlet location.
3. Cut power from the panel to the outlet location.
4. Install a new 20A breaker in the panel for the circuit.
5. Pull the wires into the outlet box, leaving 6 inches of extra wire.
6. Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from the wire ends.
7. Connect the hot wire to the brass screw, neutral to silver, ground to green.
8. Secure the wires with the outlet’s clamps.
9. Attach the outlet to the box and install the cover plate.
10. Turn the power back on and test that the outlet works.

Be sure to consult local building codes for any specific wiring requirements in your area. With the right materials and proper technique, a 20 amp outlet can safely be added to provide power for larger appliances.

Cost of 20 amp outlets

Installing new 20 amp outlets will impact your project budget. Here are some typical costs for materials and professional installation:

• 20 amp breaker – $10 to $50 depending on type
• 12 AWG wire – $0.50 to $1.50 per foot
• 20 amp outlet – $2 to $10 depending on style
• Electrician hourly rate – $40 to $100 per hour

A simple 20 amp outlet circuit installed by an electrician may range from $100 to $300 depending on the complexity. DIY installation using your own labor can save on costs. Installing multiple new outlets, breakers, and wire runs will increase the overall project budget.

Important notes about 20 amp outlets

Here are some additional tips and considerations when working with 20 amp receptacles:

• Write “20 Amp” on the breaker and outlet to avoid confusion.
• Only use plugs and cords rated for at least 20 amps.
• Do not overload the circuit by plugging in too many appliances.
• Use 12 AWG wire for extensions cords plugged into 20 amp outlets.
• Regularly check the outlet for heat or discoloration as a fire safety precaution.
• Shut power off and call an electrician if you notice any issues.

Safety tips

Safety should always be the top concern when working with electrical wiring and outlets:

• Turn off power at the breaker before wiring a new outlet.
• Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm power is off.
• Follow local electrical and building codes for any required permits or inspections.
• Be sure you understand basic electrical concepts like current, grounding, and polarity.
• Wear protective equipment like gloves, long sleeves and eye protection.
• Keep flammable materials away from electrical work.
• Plug high-draw appliances directly into outlets instead of using extensions cords.
• Replace any outlet that shows signs of scorching, pitting or discoloration.

Following basic safety practices can help prevent electrical fires, shocks, and other hazards when installing new 20 amp outlets and circuits.

Conclusion

In summary, 20 amp 120V and 240V outlets are designed for use with larger appliances and tools that need more power. They use special plugs and wiring to handle the increased electrical loads safely. When installing new 20 amp circuits, be sure to follow electrical codes and take proper safety precautions. With some basic knowledge and prep work, homeowners can upgrade their homes with new 20 amp outlets suitable for larger appliances and high-power electronics.