When you are installing an outlet in the kitchen, you will naturally assume any type will do. This is untrue as there are variations that need to be taken into consideration including the amps associated with each type. This includes asking, should you use a 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen?
You should only install 20 amp GFCI outlets in kitchens. It’s important to make sure the outlet, wire, and breaker are all rated to handle 20 amps. This will ensure a safe, streamlined electrical setup that’s ideal for a kitchen.
Settling for a 15 amp GFCI outlet is not sufficient due to the amount of load that’s going to be put on the outlet. It’s better to go with the higher-rated outlet for both kitchens and bathrooms.
Key factors include:
- General Usage
- Amount of Power
- Safety Ratings
When asking “Should I use a 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen?” you will want to focus on how the outlet is going to be used in the room. This includes what you are going to be connecting to it and how much power will be used during the year.
Take the time to go with the higher outlet because the benefits will be noticeable. You should never settle for less!
This article will answer “Should I use 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet in kitchen?” by explaining the benefits of a 20 amp GFCI outlet for kitchens.
Best Outlet For Kitchen (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
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Benefits of 20 Amp GFCI Outlet in The Kitchen
1. Can Handle Higher Loads
It is the load that is going to matter when using a 20 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen.
When you install a new outlet, you will want to consider what will be connected to it during the day. If you are going to be connecting kitchen appliances (small or large) you will want enough power running through the outlet at all times.
Any hurdles in this regard will lead to unwanted power outages!
Anyone asking “Should I use a 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen?” has to keep this in mind. The benefits of using a 20 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen cannot be stressed enough. You will know it is going to perform the way you want it to at all times.
Anything else could let you down and become a hurdle that needs to be replaced later on!
2. Increase in Power Output
The one thing you are going to care about is the power output data.
You want to make sure enough power is coming through that won’t ruin your appliances. This becomes a real challenge when you are using weaker alternatives.
The 20 amp GFCI outlet is great because it’s certified and is going to be in line with what you want as a homeowner.
This natural increase in power is essential.
It will make a difference as you put more of a load on the power line in this part of the house. If you are asking “Should I use a 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen?” the power output metrics need to be on your mind.
3. General Safety
A lot of homeowners don’t think about safety as much as they should.
When you are using the wrong type of outlet, electrocution can become an issue. You are also going to increase the likelihood of an unwanted spark that can lead to a fire.
This demonstrates the importance of answering “Should I use 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen?” by looking at the underlying safety standards.
In general, for kitchens, you are going to find the 20 amp GFCI outlet to be safer.
This alone is reason enough to appreciate what you are going to get with this type of outlet over the long term.
Related Questions
1. Can I Use A 15 Amp GFCI Outlet In Kitchen?
It is not recommended to use a 15 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen. This will not supply enough power. It’s better to install at least two 20 amp GFCI outlets in the kitchen.
2. Do Kitchen Outlets Require 20 Amps?
Yes, kitchen outlets require 20 amps for maximum efficiency and reliability. Settling for anything less than this can pose a risk to the power output in this part of the property.
Final Thoughts
“Should I use a 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet in the kitchen?”
It’s always best to use a 20 amp GFCI outlet in your kitchen. This will provide reliable power that is easy to use and isn’t going to ruin your appliances.
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