Question about stacked switch

[Verdeboy]

In my home, I need to replace a stacked modular switch that controls an exhaust fan (top switch) and heated blower (bottom switch). This Nutone, combination heater/exhaust fan is located above my shower.

The two hot wires that connect to the upper and lower switches are pigtailed with the incoming hot wire, and they are 12 ga stranded copper. The two neutrals are 12 ga solid copper. The breaker is 20 amp. The modular stacked switch, however, is only rated for 15 amps.

I looked all over town for a 20 amp rated stacked switch, and there were none to be found, even in the electrical supply stores.

Given that the breaker is 20 amp, and the wires are all 12 ga, shouldn't this switch be rated for 20 amps? Especially since there is a heating element involved that could potentially draw a lot of current.

What do you think?

 

[Cacher_Chick]

Oem

Nutone and Broan both sell modular switches that are made for such applications.

If you would rather, put in a 2-gang box and install separate 20 amp switches.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Mikey]

Or put in a 15A breaker, if that will carry the load.

 

[Jbfan74]

There is nothing wrong with having the 15 amp rated switches on the 20 amp breaker.
I have never seen a 20 amp stacked switch, but I have not looked for one either.

 

[Jadnashua]

15A outlets are allowed on a 20A circuit, you just can't put a 20A outlet on a 15A circuit. I don't see a problem using the manufacturer's switch that is matched to their device for control. If your thought were followed through, think about a lamp you plugged it - it could be rated to use a max 100W bulb...it doesn't have to have a 20A switch in it, or 12g wiring, either.

The typical wiring in the UK has limited fusing or CB...each plug is required to have a fuse in it (in the plug on the cord). The advantage is that if that appliance is defective, the only thing it affects is itself.

 

[Chris75]

Switches are rated for the load not the breaker size... thats why you can use a 15 amp switch... Most Fan/Heaters instructions require a 20 amp circuit but the heater only draws 1500 watts, thats 12.5 amps, way below a 15 amp switch.

 

[Verdeboy]

Okay, thanks!!

Is there a problem using a standard stacked switch, instead of the OEM modular replacement? It seems to be working just fine.

 

[Chris75]

Okay, thanks!!

Is there a problem using a standard stacked switch, instead of the OEM modular replacement? It seems to be working just fine.

Use whatever brand you wish...

 

[Mikey]

Leviton makes stacked 20A switches

5627 - spst
5640 - 3-way

each is about $30 list

also:

5636 - combo switch & receptacle (spst only)

all in Decora style, of course.

 

[Verdeboy]

Thanks Mikey et al.

I'll stick with the 15 amp gizmo, since it's working fine, and according to Chris, it's only pulling 12.5 amps anyway.