Can I use a 6/2 romex cable with a 60 amp breaker, generally no, 6/2 Romex NM-B cable is not rated for 60 amps under NEC, as NM cable must use 60 degree column for ampacity, with 6 AWG NM-B rated 55 amps at 60 degrees, so cannot be used with 60 amp breaker, requires larger wire or different wiring method, with 6/2 NM-B rated 55 amps, so maximum breaker 50 amps, with some exceptions allowing next size up but not for 60 amp. NEC Table 310.16 shows 6 AWG copper at 60C is 55 amps, and NM cable must use 60C column per 334.80, so 6/2 NM-B ampacity 55 amps, so cannot use 60 amp breaker, must use 50 amp breaker maximum for 6/2 NM-B, or use 6/2 MC cable or THHN in conduit which can use 75C column rating 65 amps allowing 60 amp breaker. For 60 amp circuit you need 4 AWG NM-B or 6 AWG THHN in conduit. So can I use 6/2 Romex with 60 amp breaker, no, not code compliant, as 6/2 NM-B only 55 amp rated, requires 50 amp breaker, with 60 amp breaker requires 4 AWG NM-B, with 6/2 Romex suitable for 50 amp loads like some ranges or EV chargers with 50 amp breaker, but not 60 amp, with electrician advising to follow NEC ampacity tables and use correct gauge for breaker size to prevent overheating and fire hazard.
1 votes
Marked as accepted