AC wire type


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Old 11-17-15, 07:29 PM
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AC wire type

I need to add a switched duplex outlet for a converter/charger in an RV. Sounds simple. This will be in a cabinet with little spare room, hard to access but I need to be able to turn the charger on or off, so want to run a remote switch.

A full size house type switch and box will not work.

I have bought a 20A AC rated toggle switch, not a house hold switch, they type that would be considered an automotive switch.

I know I need 14 ga wire as the circuit will use 7 amps and be protected by a 15A circuit breaker.

Wire? Wire needs to be flexible, stranded THHN would be too stiff, I looked at primary wire, it appears to be rated for 60 volts?

Using lamp or extension cord does not seem right?

What kind of wire do I need? Jim
 
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Old 11-17-15, 08:02 PM
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It can be hard wiring in an RV but the AC wiring is similar to a house. Devices like switches and receptacle still need to be kept in approved/enclosed boxes. They do make shallow devices for that purpose and NM-B would still be the wire of choice too.
 
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Old 11-18-15, 04:27 AM
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You did not mention if this is 120 volt AC wiring or 12 volt DC. The wiring methods available are different for each.
 
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Old 11-18-15, 05:18 AM
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15 years on the internet and I still don't give enough info

1120V


Approved box. I don't mean to be argumentative, I am sitting here and looking at 4 120 Volt items that have a switch that is not in a box. 3 lights and a paper shredder.

In my house and shop are many more items that are not wired with NM-B and switches are not in box's.

Are there tiny box's for small toggle switches?

Jim
 
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Old 11-18-15, 07:27 AM
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I have bought a 20A AC rated toggle switch, not a house hold switch, they type that would be considered an automotive switch.
An automotive switch typically would be rated at 12 volts. What is the voltage rating of your switch?

I am sitting here and looking at 4 120 Volt items that have a switch that is not in a box. 3 lights and a paper shredder.
Those items are most likely U.L. Listed. Were you planning on having your switch arrangement Listed? If not, you'll need a box for it unless it is just a low voltage switch.
 
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Old 11-18-15, 05:19 PM
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?? Thought I answered. its 120V rated 20 amps.

If I wanted to have it listed what kind of wire would I use? Jim
 
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Old 11-18-15, 06:12 PM
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You can use any wire that is rated for 120 volts. Most "building wire" is rated 300 volts or 600 volts. You might even find some rated at 1000 volts. 20 amps will require #12 wire.

Approved box. I don't mean to be argumentative, I am sitting here and looking at 4 120 Volt items that have a switch that is not in a box. 3 lights and a paper shredder.
The items you listed are likely UL (or other) listed and are an approved manufactured item. Field wiring must conform to the wiring methods listed in the NEC.

Did you ever look at mobile home devices (switches). Many of the devices used in a mobile home are also used in an RV type setting. They are self contained. Example: Pass & Seymour White Self Contained Rocker Wall Switch | Mobile Home Parts Store
 
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Old 11-19-15, 03:53 AM
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Thanks for the responses, I have no room for anything other than a small switch.
Jim
 
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Old 11-19-15, 10:06 AM
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Thought I answered. its 120V rated 20 amps.
Nope, never did mention switch votage ratings. You just answered that the wiring was 1120 volt.
 
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Old 11-19-15, 11:44 AM
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1120 volt Someday I will get it right, just not today.
 
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Old 11-19-15, 12:20 PM
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You mean you don't want MV switches in your RV? :-)

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