What Size Wire for a 15 Amp Breaker?
A 15 A breaker needs 14 AWG copper with 75°C terminations (NEC Table 310.16). Longer runs may need a size up for voltage drop: distances below.
Minimum wire size for 15 amps
| Application | Copper (75°C) | Aluminum (75°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Branch circuit / feeder (Table 310.16) | 14 AWG | not typical |
Assumes 75°C-rated terminations (NEC 110.14(C)). Both assume no more than three current-carrying conductors in a raceway at 30°C ambient. Derating, continuous loads, and local amendments can change the answer: confirm with a licensed electrician.
Ground wire for 15 amps
| Ground | Copper | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment ground (bare / green) (Table 250.122) | 14 AWG | 12 AWG |
The equipment ground is sized by the breaker, not the load: a 15A breaker falls in Table 250.122's 15 A row. Upsize the hots for voltage drop and the ground must grow in proportion (NEC 250.122(B)). Every size, with a worked upsizing example, is in the ground wire size chart.
How far can you run it? (voltage drop)
Keeping voltage drop under the recommended 3% at a 12 A load (80% of the breaker), 14 AWG copper is good for roughly:
| System voltage | Max one-way run (14 AWG Cu) |
|---|---|
| 120 V | ≈ 47 ft |
| 240 V | ≈ 95 ft |
Past these distances, step up one gauge. Run your exact length and load through the voltage drop calculator.
What runs on 15 amps
- Lighting circuits
- Bedroom & living-room outlets
- Smoke detectors
Common receptacle at this rating: NEMA 5-15.
Parts for a 15 A circuit
A 15 A circuit takes a 5-15 receptacle. A heavy-duty tamper-resistant device keeps its grip on plugs for decades where a builder-grade one loosens.
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15 A receptacle
Leviton T5262 Industrial-Spec 15A Duplex
Best for: Replacing worn 15 A receptacles with ones that never get loose
Non-contact voltage tester
Klein Tools NCVT-3P
Best for: Confirming a circuit is dead before you open a device or box
Frequently asked questions
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