Yes and no. The boxes, outlets, and switches are standard sizes. Except that ceiling boxes, ceiling fan boxes, audio wiring boxes, etc. are different sizes than boxes for outlets and switches.

Do switch plates come in different sizes?

Three Sizes
Switches and wall outlet cover plates are screwed onto the device they are covering and come in three general sizes: Standard. Preferred (also known as midsize or midway) Oversized (also called jumbo)

Are all wall plates the same?





Wall plates have many different configurations. To find the right one for your needs, consider where it will be used and the number of switch/outlet openings. Also, consider the number of gangs in a wall plate. Gangs refer to the number of side-by-side elements, which isn’t always the same as the number of openings.

What are the rectangular outlets called?

Types of Block Outlets
Modern outlets are rectangle shaped devices which fit rocker cover plates. They are often referred to as block outlets, decorator outlets, or “Decora” receptacles.

How wide is a 3 switch plate?

6-3/8″ wide

Standard Switch Plates
Two gangs are 4-9/16″ wide. Three gangs are 6-3/8″ wide. Four gangs are 8-3/16″ wide. Five gangs are 10″ wide.

Are all electrical outlets the same size?





The boxes, outlets, and switches are standard sizes. Except that ceiling boxes, ceiling fan boxes, audio wiring boxes, etc. are different sizes than boxes for outlets and switches. Those are normally interchangeable between manufacturers.

Are all wall switches the same?

Most of the common types of switches come in different styles, such as toggle, rocker, slider, or push-button. The style usually does not affect the switch function and electrical wiring, though it can make the selection process confusing.

What size wall plate should I use?

Wall plates should be:
a minimum of 3m or extend over at least three joists, rafters or trusses. joined using half-lapped joints, including at corners. 38 x 100mm or in accordance with local practice.

How do I choose a switch plate cover?

How-To Guide for Selecting the Correct Light Switch Covers

  1. Device Descriptions. …
  2. Plate Orientation Pay attention to the orientation of decorative combination plates that have different device openings. …
  3. Color and Finish. …
  4. Decorating On A Budget. …
  5. Oversized Switchplates May Be Required.


What is a switch plate?

Definition of switch plate
: the metal plate in front of an electrical switch box through which the plugs or tumblers protrude.

Are all outlets the same?

If not all electrical outlets in your home look the same, it’s because there are many different types of electrical outlets. Each type has unique characteristics and features. What works for the bedroom may not be the best for your bathroom counters and vice versa.

What are the 4 types of electrical outlets?



7 Electrical Outlet Types & How To Use Them

  • 15-Amp Duplex Receptacle. In the U.S., most homes have a combination of 15-amp and 20-amp, 120-volt circuits. …
  • 20A Outlets. 20A outlets, combined with 20A circuits, are a good choice for devices in need of more power. …
  • Switched Outlets. …
  • GFCI & AFCI Outlets. …
  • USB & Smart Outlets.

What happens if you put a 20 amp outlet on a 15 amp circuit?

First off, connecting a 20 Amp load to a 15 Amp circuit will overload the circuit but shouldn’t cause a fire because the 15 Amp breaker will trip. A 20 amp GFCI doesn’t pose any threat just by being there.

Can I use 12 gauge wire on a 15 amp circuit?

Because it has even less chance of overheating, 12-gauge wire is also acceptable on a 15-amp circuit.

Can I run 14 gauge wire on a 20 amp circuit?



You cannot use any 14 gauge wire on a 20 amp circuit. This is true, even running to a light fixture that has smaller wires built in. The wires built into the fixture are allowed as part of a manufactured assembly. However, any added wire must be appropriate to the circuit breaker protecting the wire.

Can I use a 15 amp outlet with 12 gauge wire?

With 12 gauge, you need to use the screw terminals. You can use 15 amp outlets on either 15 or 20 amp circuits. 12 gauge wire is the minimum for 20 amp circuits. 14 gauge wire is the minimum for 15 amp circuits.

Can you run 12 and 14 gauge wire together?

Anyway, the first subject is a bit touchy because it makes it difficult to perform an inspection when all of the wires coming into the panel are 12 but many of the circuits have 14 in them too. There is nothing against code mixing wire size for these circuits as long as the OCPD matches the smallest wire.

Are bathroom outlets 15 or 20-amp?

The minimum requirement for outlet receptacles in a bathroom is one GFCI-protected receptacle served by a 20-amp circuit. This is a bare minimum, however, and most bathrooms will have at least two receptacles, and often as many of four or five.