On 6 Dec 2006 18:34:19 -0800, "
wrote:



I agree with the op about checking the gauge of the wire first. Is it
12 or 14?
You could possibly have #12 wire (20 amp) on a 15 amp breaker. In that
case all you need to do is switch out the breaker to a 20 amp.

-Felder

WARNING although the wire gauge at that outlet MIGHT BE 12 thats no
guarantee its 12 gauge thruout the entire breakers circuit!


for any number of reasons like voltage drop somone MAY have run a 12
gauge wire part way thru the circuit ..............

This is true, but it can be a reasonable assumption if you have #12 at
the outlet (in and out). You can then check the panel and if it has
#12 you can be reasonably sure.