A 20 amp breaker does not allow the current of more than 20 amperes to flow in the circuit. In most cases, it will not be safe to use a 30 amp breaker instead of 20 amp breaker. Can You Replace a 20 Amp Breaker with a 30 Amp Breaker Therefore, it is not wise to use 12 gauge wire for a 25 amp breaker. If a 12-gauge wire is used instead of a 10 gauge, the elements of the circuit may be damaged due to excessive heat for overcurrent flow. As temperature increases, the resistance of the wire increases. If an overcurrent flows through the wire, it will burn and cause serious damage.įor a 25 amp breaker, 10 gauge wire is usually used. As the AWG increases, the resistance of the wire increases, and the diameter of the wire decreases. However, some 12 wire has 25-30 wire rating which is not preferable. Usually, a 12 gauge wire is used for a 20 amps breaker. If the right size for wire is not picked, it will put the circuit at risk. According to the current ratings of the circuit, a breaker is selected, and then wire size is chosen for the breaker. Can You Use a 12 Gauge Wire for a 25 Amp BreakerĪ circuit breaker is an electrical safety device that protects electric circuit elements from damage due to current overflow or short circuits. This rule does not apply to every circumstance. However, it might lead us to a misunderstanding. 12-gauge wire is good for 20 amps, 10-gauge wire is good for 30 amps, 8-gauge wire is good for 40 amps, and 6-gauge wire is good for 50 amps. There’s a thumb rule for determining the size of the cable. However, it is not preferred to use 12-gauge wire for more than 20 amps current by most electricians. But sometimes 12 AWG (4mm 2) wire is also used based on the conductor materials, types of loads, and temperature. Usually, a 25 amp breaker requires 10 AWG (6 mm 2) copper wire. Wire Ampacity Size Table | Encore Wire Corporation
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