I actually experienced by accident the rare event of damage that happened because a breaker did not function correctly at its rated 20amp break but stayed engaged for several minutes with a small wire shorted inside a device, long enough to start a fire inside the device.
In my case, I discovered there was a documented problem with the brand of breakers installed in 1977 that had caused house fires by failing to trip.
http://parkinelectric.com/2014/07/01/fpe-stab-lok-breakers-and-panels-position-statement/
I had an Oklahoma Licensed electrician replace the entire panel with new and inspected all the wired circuits to eliminate this problem. We also replaced a GFI that failed test. I did electrical work long ago in another state, but wanted an OK licensed cert to turn in to my insurance company (major upgrade).
So, yes, if everything works right, changing a plug to fit in a higher rated outlet should cause no problems. And if something weird happens inside your equipment and a fire starts, you might be there to turn it off.
And if you are unlucky enough to get the one-in-a million problem.....well, it happens.
Me, I'm chicken. I want it done to code, with UL components.
In my case, I discovered there was a documented problem with the brand of breakers installed in 1977 that had caused house fires by failing to trip.
http://parkinelectric.com/2014/07/01/fpe-stab-lok-breakers-and-panels-position-statement/
I had an Oklahoma Licensed electrician replace the entire panel with new and inspected all the wired circuits to eliminate this problem. We also replaced a GFI that failed test. I did electrical work long ago in another state, but wanted an OK licensed cert to turn in to my insurance company (major upgrade).
So, yes, if everything works right, changing a plug to fit in a higher rated outlet should cause no problems. And if something weird happens inside your equipment and a fire starts, you might be there to turn it off.
And if you are unlucky enough to get the one-in-a million problem.....well, it happens.
Me, I'm chicken. I want it done to code, with UL components.
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