Noozer wrote:
"Em" wrote in message
...
I added a light fixture to an existing 20A 12awg circuit, and didn't
realize I used 14awg romex until I was done. The new fixture wouldn't
overload even a 15A circuit, so a) are you gonna tell me I have to fix my
error and put in the larger cable, and b) why is that? Thanks

So, when one of the wirenuts starts getting loose and causes an 19A circuit,
you feel safe knowing that the 20A breaker won't trip, but the 14awg wiring
isn't rating for 19A?



Em,
Is the 14awg cable switched, or not switched? If it's switched, I would
leave it alone (even though it is a technical code violation) because
nobody is gonna come along later and extend the circuit and install a
half dozen receptacles. If it is not switched, you have to be concerned
with what some idiot is going to add on to it 20 years from now.

Noozer,
14 gauge copper wire *is* rated for 20A, the code just says you have to
derate it to 15A anyway. Your 19A scenario wouldn't hurt anything.

Bob