Bingo. Most power circuits are rated at 16A these days. In other words, the wiring and associated breakers are capable of carrying at least 16A continuously. More than 16A can be used at any one time, but only for short periods. The problem with this is the fact that a 10A socket outlet is only rated to carry 10A continously, and will infact get quite hot if you draw more than this for extended periods. The heating and cooling effect has a tendency to loosen screws in the powerpoints over time, and eventually you will get what is known as a high resistance connection. In short, I've seen many socket outlets completely fried from this.shortie wrote:
The issue here is you can potentially melt the 10amp rated powerpoint or the plug top. These are rated 10 amps regardless of what the rest of the circuit is capable of carrying. IT is not legal to do so.
Will your welder burn your house down over night? No.
Is it worthwhile installing a 15A GPO? Definately.