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Which Docking Drawer Outlet Is Right for You: 15 Amp vs. 20 Amp?
When selecting an outlet for your drawer, a common question is, “Should I go with a 15 amp or 20 amp outlet?” This is especially relevant for bathroom vanity setups where devices like hair dryers and curling irons are powered. Although Docking Drawer provides 20 amp options, in nearly every home setting, a 15 amp outlet is the best fit.
Understanding Amps and Watts for Outlets
To help you choose the right outlet, let’s break down amps and watts. Amps (amperes) indicate the flow of electrical current, whereas watts measure the actual power a device uses. You can find the amps needed by a device using the equation: Amps = Watts / Volts, which requires knowing the device’s wattage and voltage.
15 Amp Outlets Explained
A 15 amp outlet supports devices that draw up to 15 amps of current. At 120 volts, this means a maximum power load of about 1800 watts (15 amps x 120 volts). Most common household items, including hair dryers, curling irons, and other small appliances, operate safely within this limit.
For example: A hair dryer rated at 1450 watts will use roughly 13.5 amps, and a 13-watt curling iron draws just 0.5 amps. Both are well within the safe capacity of a 15 amp outlet.
20 Amp Outlets Explained
A 20 amp outlet can accommodate devices that require up to 20 amps of current. At 120 volts, this equals a maximum power consumption of around 2400 watts (20 amps x 120 volts). It’s worth noting that devices needing a 20 amp outlet, like some high-demand appliances, are less common in most homes.
For example: Hair dryers with a NEMA 5-20P plug, intended for 20 amp outlets, are not widely available. Most hair dryers are manufactured to work with standard 15 amp outlets.
Choosing Between a 15 or 20 Amp Outlet: What to Consider
Here’s how to determine the best outlet for your Docking Drawer setup based on several practical factors:
Available Electrical Circuits
A 15 amp outlet is the ideal match if your home already has a 15 amp circuit in place. This setup is well-suited for powering common devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops that you’d typically use with a Docking Drawer.
Compatibility and Safety Considerations
Keep in mind that a 20 amp plug will not fit into a 15 amp outlet, but a 15 amp plug fits easily into a 20 amp outlet. Having a higher amperage outlet doesn’t automatically make it a superior option for every situation.
Both 15 amp and 20 amp Docking Drawer Blade Duo and Blade series in-drawer outlets are equipped with identical safety features, including an interlocking thermostat that prevents overheating inside the drawer.
Outlet Dimensions and Upgrading
Within the same Docking Drawer Blade outlet line, the physical size of the 15 amp and 20 amp outlets is identical. This means upgrading from a 15 amp to a 20 amp outlet is straightforward, as you won’t need to modify your drawer outlet cutout.
Notable Differences:
- Cord Gauge: The 20 amp outlet uses a 12 gauge cord, while the 15 amp outlet uses a 14 gauge cord.
- Plug Type: 15 amp outlets require NEMA 5-15P plugs; 20 amp outlets require NEMA 5-20P plugs.
- Cord Length: The 15 amp outlet comes with a 4-foot cord, whereas the 20 amp outlet has a 3-foot cord.
This information helps ensure your Docking Drawer installation is both safe and compatible with your needs
15 amp 4AC Docking Drawer Blade Duo In-Drawer Outlet
20 amp 4AC Docking Drawer Blade Duo In-Drawer Outlet
Which Outlet Is the Best Fit for Your Needs?
Although Docking Drawer offers 20 amp outlet options, for most home installations, the 15 amp outlet is the preferred solution. When making your choice, take into account compatibility, safety features, and the available power supply in your current wiring. If you’re unsure about the right outlet for your drawer or your specific setup, our team is here to provide guidance and support.