You should never replace a 15-amp fuse with a 20-amp fuse because it is considered a hazardous and dangerous practice. Can I replace a 15-amp fuse with a 20-amp fuse? It is highly advised that the recommended fuse size is adhered to and no higher amp fuse is used.

Additionally, the use of a higher amp fuse can lead to arcing of the current as it is overloaded and can cause potential fire hazards. This can cause not only physical damage, but possible thermal damage such as melting or burning of the components. This higher amp fuse can lead to the circuit being overloaded and can cause much higher levels of current than the circuit components are rated for. When a fuse is designed for a certain amperage, it is designed to blow when the current exceeds that amperage and thus saving the circuit from any further damage.īy putting a higher amp fuse, you are essentially bypassing the sacrificial element of the system. Using a higher amp fuse than what is recommended can be dangerous and can result in catastrophic damage to the system or even cause a fire. What happens if you put a higher amp fuse in? It is important to check the owner’s manual to confirm the specified fuse amp rating, as the wrong fuse could be a hazard to the circuit and possibly cause a fire. If you use a higher amp fuse, then you run the risk of allowing too much current to pass through the circuit that it is not designed to handle, and it can cause components to overheat and have lasting damage to them.įurthermore, if appliances and/or fixtures call for a specific amp rating fuse, then you must use that same amp rating fuse to comply with UL (Underwriters Laboratories) standard. If your fuse is rated too low for the amount of current that the circuit is seeing, then it will blow and the circuit will be unprotected. Fuses provide protection for electrical circuits by preventing excessive current flow, which would otherwise cause a circuit to overheat and potentially cause damage to other components, as well as being a fire hazard. Yes, you can use a higher amp fuse in some circumstances, but it is important to first understand why a fuse is important and why it should be the correct amp rating.

20 amp fuse in 15 amp slot