5 Things to Know About NEMA 5-15 and 5-20 Plugs

NEMA 5-15 is the standard three-prong plug It has two vertical blades and a round ground pin. It handles 15 amps at 125 volts.

NEMA 5-20 is for higher-power tools It looks like a 5-15 but has one blade turned sideways into a T-shape. It handles 20 amps.

The plugs are not interchangeable A 5-20 plug will not fit a standard 15-amp outlet. A 5-15 plug will fit a 20-amp outlet but only draw 15 amps.

Use 5-15 for most household tools and lights Shop vacs, drills, and holiday lights all work fine with a 5-15 plug.

Use 5-20 for compressors and table saws These tools often draw 20 amps and require the T-shaped plug and a matching outlet.