Can general-purpose circuits only be wired with No. 12 wire?

General-purpose circuits can be wired with different sizes of wire, depending on the circuit's amperage requirements and the applicable electrical codes. The National Electrical Code (NEC) allows for various wire sizes to be used based on the load and the type of device or circuit being installed.

In typical residential applications, No. 12 wire is commonly used for circuits that are expected to handle up to 20 amps, while No. 14 wire is appropriate for circuits that are designed for a maximum of 15 amps. This flexibility in wire sizing allows electricians to choose the most suitable wire gauge for the specific demands of each circuit, considering both safety and efficiency.

Therefore, it's accurate to assert that general-purpose circuits do not have to be exclusively wired with No. 12 wire; they can also effectively utilize No. 14 wire, especially in lower ampacity applications, making the statement that all general-purpose circuits can only be wired with No. 12 wire incorrect.