For a general-purpose receptacle, what is the minimum required amperage circuit?

For a general-purpose receptacle, the minimum required amperage circuit is 15 amps. This standard is set to ensure that the receptacle can safely handle the load from common household appliances and devices without the risk of overheating or tripping the circuit breaker.

A 15-amp circuit provides sufficient capacity for most everyday uses, accommodating devices like lamps, computers, and small kitchen appliances, which generally do not draw more than this amount of current. Ensuring that the circuit is rated appropriately protects both the appliances and the wiring from damage due to overloads.

Using a lower amperage, like 10 amps, would not meet the demand of typical devices, while higher options like 20 or 25 amps are not necessary for general-purpose receptacles unless specified for particular high-demand applications. This makes the 15-amp circuit the most suitable and code-compliant choice for general usage.