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Under 240.4(D), the maximum overcurrent device for 14 AWG copper is how many amps?

15A for 14 AWG copper, 20A for 12 AWG copper.

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  1. 20A
  2. 25A
  3. 15A ✔

Why: Small conductors have hard limits on the breaker size. 14 AWG copper is limited to 15A and 12 AWG copper is limited to 20A.

Huh, didn't know that: Swap 12 AWG copper for 10 AWG copper and you can run a 30A circuit.

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References

Answer: 15A. Small conductors have hard limits on the breaker size. 14 AWG copper is limited to 15A and 12 AWG copper is limited to 20A.

  1. EC&M: Protecting Conductors Part 3 www.ecmweb.com/maintenance-repair-operations/article/20901392/protecting-conductors-part-3
    the maximum OCPD for 14 AWG copper is 15A, but for 12 AWG copper it’s 20A.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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