Although there is no limit to the number of receptacles used on a 15 amp circuit, you should not exceed 80% of the circuit breaker’s rated load. Given the norm is to use one outlet per 1.5 amp, you can add as many as eight outlets for a 15 amp circuit.
When adding outlets to the same circuit, you must make sure that it does not overload. Otherwise, it will create dangerous situations. That is why it is important to know exactly how many outlets you can add to a specific circuit.
How Many Outlets on a 15 Amp Circuit
Generally speaking, there is no limit on the number of outlets that can be used on a 15 amp circuit. Unless you are running your appliances in such a way that they overload your 15 amp circuit breaker, you can put as many plugs as you want.
However, things are not that simple. For better understanding, we will have to look at some specific factors at play here.
Regulations on the Number of Receptacles on a 15 Amp Circuit
Every region has its electrical codes that contractors have to follow. If they fail to execute electrical installations according to the codes, they will have to face serious consequences. Therefore, checking the National Electrical Codes (NEC) and local codes first is a must.
According to NEC, there is no limit to the number of outlets per circuit. For the most part, you can add as many lights and outlets as you want. However, it specifies that a circuit cannot supply more than 80% of the circuit breaker’s limit.
The purpose behind this is to prevent the breaker from constantly tripping during daily use. Although, if the electrical codes in your area are different from NEC, then you should follow the local codes. The 80% rule is originally an NEC concept that is applicable for a continuous load.
Load and Rating of Power Outlets
You will also have to compare the ratings of the receptacles to the rating of the circuit you want them to add to. The common practice is to add one outlet per 1.5 amp. Therefore, you can add up to 10 outlets for a 15 amp circuit breaker. But practically, it is not feasible.
As stated before, you are not allowed to force a circuit breaker to carry more than 80 percent of its rated load. Mathematically, it would suggest a maximum of eight outlets for a 15 amp circuit breaker. In other words, you can count only 12 amps out of 15 amps.
Regardless of how many outlets you add to your circuit breaker, you cannot simultaneously use them. This is because the circuit will overload and trip. To prevent this from happening, you can use different circuit breakers for each section of your house.
Conclusion
To sum up, the key to adding outlets to the same circuit is to pay close attention to the NEC and local electrical codes. The amperage per room should be appropriate. Make sure you limit the number of receptacles used on your 15 amp circuit without exceeding the breaker’s design capacity.
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