I keep finding 14 Gauge on 20 amp breakers!

[rmeier2 (Robert Meier)]

@jneville

Since I started inspecting at the end of last month, I’ve done 7 inspections and every one I have inspected has had 14 Gauge branch circuit wiring on 20 amp breakers. It’s mainly been on newer homes, I think these electrical contractors are cheaping out and just throwing them on there instead of grabbing a 15 amp breaker. What are your thoughts?

It could be permissible to have conductors with a lower ampacity than the OCPD if the circuit were feeding AC units or motor loads.