What is the maximum cord-and-plug-connected load permitted on a 15A multioutlet receptacle supplied by a 20A circuit?

The maximum cord-and-plug-connected load permitted on a 15A multioutlet receptacle supplied by a 20A circuit is 12 amps. This is because the National Electrical Code (NEC) recognizes that while a 20A circuit can supply up to 20 amps, receptacles themselves (like a 15A multioutlet) have their own ratings.

When a 15A multioutlet is connected to a 20A circuit, the load connected to that outlet cannot exceed 80% of the circuit's rated capacity; this is aimed at preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation. The 80% rule means that you take 20 amps (the circuit's capacity) and multiply by 0.8, which provides a limit of 16 amps for the circuit. However, since the outlet itself is rated for a maximum of 15 amps, the effective limit becomes the outlet's capacity.

Therefore, in practice, it is generally recommended to limit the load to 12 amps to provide an additional safety margin, especially considering the continuous load calculations and the maximum usage period of the connected devices. This precaution enhances safety and overall system reliability.