Choosing between 12 & 14 guage wire
#1
01-14-03, 02:48 PM
Choosing between 12 & 14 guage wire
We have an old house I am trying to rewire and noticed that some circuits caring significantly more load than others. Are there some guides on choosing whether to wire with 12 guage or 14 guage based on the types of loads. I realize you can not give specific recommendations due to legal issues but can you point me to some resources or give me some ways to create general rules of thumb. Thank you
#2
01-14-03, 03:55 PM
Member
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: New York
Posts: 1,287
Upvotes: 0
Received 0 Upvotes
on
0 Posts
The general rule is:
if it requires a 15A circuit breaker, you may use #14awg or #12awg copper.
if it requires a 20A circuit breaker, you may use #12awg or #10awg copper.
Most would use the larger size when concerned with long runs, and future expansion possibilities.
if it requires a 15A circuit breaker, you may use #14awg or #12awg copper.
if it requires a 20A circuit breaker, you may use #12awg or #10awg copper.
Most would use the larger size when concerned with long runs, and future expansion possibilities.
#3
01-14-03, 04:33 PM
Member
We don't mind giving specific recommendations. Probably because none of us are legally knowledgeable enough to figure out whether or not we are taking risks by doing so.
I'd just use 12-gauge wire for all circuits serving lighting or receptacles. Saves the trouble of stocking two sizes.
I'd just use 12-gauge wire for all circuits serving lighting or receptacles. Saves the trouble of stocking two sizes.
#4
01-14-03, 05:26 PM
Thats what I always do on my wiring jobs as well. It's to easy to use 14 Gauge wire, have it hooked up to a 15 amp breaker and later on down the road forgetting or somebody else not knowing better and put a 20 amp breaker in as a replacement.
