What is the extra slot on a 20 amp outlet?

What is the extra slot on a 20 amp outlet?

The T-shaped slot indicates that the 120-volt receptacle is rated for 20-amps. Regular wall receptacles with a pair of vertical slots are rated for only 15-amps, but the T-shape enables it to accept either a 15- or 20-amp plug.

What is the extra slot in an outlet for?

On a modern electrical outlet that accommodates a three-pronged plug, each hole serves a specific purpose: the round hole is for the ground pin on the plug; the small slot takes the small blade on the plug and connects to the “hot” wire in the outlet (the wire that can cause a shock); the large slot takes the large …

What is plug with sideways prong?

20-amp receptacles have a horizontal slot branching off one of the vertical slots. Appliances, such as microwaves, often have 20-amp plugs and must be plugged into a 20-amp outlet. Electrical plugs designated as 20-amp will not fit into 15-amp outlets.

Why does a 20 amp outlet look different?

Receptacles with a 20 amp current have a similar design to the 15 amp ones, with a single exception: an additional horizontal slot, which forks from one of the vertical slots (picture on the right). This enables 20 amp plugs to be inserted directly into the outlet.

Which outlet slot is neutral?

left slot
The left slot is slightly larger than the right. The left slot is called “neutral,” the right slot is called “hot” and the hole below them is called “ground.” The prongs on a plug fit into these slots in the outlet.

Do all 20 amp outlets have the T?

Although both look nearly the same, the 20 amp outlet is distinctive because one side has a T-shaped hole made for 20-amp plugs. On the other hand, 15-amps have two standard plug holes as usual. In most residential areas, you can find a 15-amp and a 20-amp receptacle.

Which slot in an outlet is hot?

right slot
The left slot is called “neutral,” the right slot is called “hot” and the hole below them is called “ground.” The prongs on a plug fit into these slots in the outlet. If you have read How Batteries Work, you know that electricity must flow in a circuit.

Why do plugs have a hole in each prong?

These bumps fit into the holes so that the outlet can grip the plug’s prongs more firmly. This detenting prevents the plug from slipping out of the socket due to the weight of the plug and cord. It also improves the contact between the plug and the outlet.

What is a 20 amp outlet used for?

A 20-amp receptacle is for heavy-duty appliances and power tools, such as air compressors. Residential garages occasionally have 20-amp receptacles to accommodate larger power tools. The term “amp” is short for “ampere.”

What does a 20 amp plug look like?

A 20 amp receptacle will have one slot that looks like a sideways T. If it is a dedicated circuit it would be a single receptacle instead of a duplex. If you look at the breakers in your breaker panel and there is a “20” on the handle, it’s a 20 amp circuit.

How many outlets can you put on a 20 amp circuit?

ten outlets
The answer to the question how many outlets on a 20 amp circuit is ten outlets. Always comply with the 80\% circuit and breaker load rule, allowing a maximum load of 1.5 amps per receptacle. Remember that your circuit, wire sizes, and outlets must be compatible to avoid overheating and electrical hazards.

Can you plug a 20 amp plug into a 15 amp outlet?

Appliances, such as microwaves, often have 20-amp plugs and must be plugged into a 20-amp outlet. Electrical plugs designated as 20-amp will not fit into 15-amp outlets. A 15-amp circuit is usually served by 14-gauge wire and is protected by a 15-amp circuit breaker or fuse.

What is a 20-amp outlet for a kitchen?

Kitchens often have 20-amp outlets to power small appliances. A 20-amp outlet is only compatible with a 20-amp circuit. The circuit’s ampere rating can be found by checking the breaker box.

How do you identify a 20-amp outlet?

A 20-amp outlet is only compatible with a 20-amp circuit. The circuit’s ampere rating can be found by checking the breaker box. A 20-amp outlet is identifiable by horizontal slots that cross the more typical vertical slots of a normal outlet.

What is a 20A receptacle outlet?

The 20A receptacle outlet has the special neutral configuration, like a cross. This identifies it as a 20A outlet. Per the National Electrical Code, you may use a 20A receptacle outlet on only a DEDICATED 20A circuit.