What Size Breaker for Garage Door Opener?
A garage door opener requires a 15A breaker with 14 AWG wire on a 120V shared (can share with lights) circuit.
🔌 Wire Length & Voltage Drop Check
Garage Door Opener Wiring Guide — NEC Requirements
Garage door openers draw 4-8A and can share a 15A or 20A circuit with garage lights and outlets. The outlet must be within 3 feet of the ceiling per NEC 210.52(G).
Pro Tip
💡 Garage receptacles require GFCI protection per NEC 210.8. Use the accessible outlet requirement for the opener.
Why a 15A Breaker?
The garage door opener draws approximately 6A at 120V (720W). A 15A breaker provides adequate protection.
Wire Sizing per NEC 310.16
For a 15A/120V circuit, 14 AWG copper is required per NEC Table 310.16 at 75°C. For runs over 75 feet, upsize to 14 AWG. Use our Wire Size Calculator and Voltage Drop Calculator.
Complete Parts List
To wire a garage door opener circuit: a 15A single-pole breaker, 14 AWG NM-B cable (Romex) for interior runs or THHN/THWN-2 in conduit for exposed runs, a NEMA 5-15 or 5-20 receptacle, cable clamps, and appropriate junction boxes.
Disclaimer: This guide is for reference only. All electrical work must be performed by or verified by a licensed electrician. Local codes may differ from NEC.