The gaugeor sizeof the wire used needs to match the circuit’s amperage rating (energy level).
The Spruce / Bailey Mariner
What Are Wire Gauges?
A wire gauge is the measurement of the diameter or thickness of a wire.
The Spruce / Bailey Mariner
The gauge determines how much electricity the wire can safely carry for different electrical applications.
The American Wire Gauge (AWG) system determines the standard gauge sizes.
A higher wire gauge number means the wire is thinner.
The Spruce / Mira Norian
When purchasing wire, you’ll see a few different numbers on the packaging or product description.
The smaller the wire gauge number, the larger the wire diameter.
Common sizes include 16-, 14-, 12-, 10-, 8-, 6-, and 2-gauge wire.
The Spruce / Ana Cadena
The size of the wire dictates how much current can safely pass through the wire.
Electrical current ismeasured in amps, and each wire gauge has a maximum safe carrying capacity.
Copper vs. Aluminum Wiring
Use the electrical wire size chart when working with copper wires.
However, it’s important to know that aluminum wires may also be present in your space.
The Spruce / Ana Cadena
Stranded vs.
Solid Wire
It’s also important to purchase the style of wire that best fits your needs.
However, it’s also prone to fraying and more susceptible to damage.
Solid wire, on the other hand, is made of a single solid copper conductor.
The size of the wire you’ll need to use should match the amp rating of the circuit.
Use a wire amperage chart to determine the correct size wire.
A 12-gauge wire is rated to handle up to 20 amps.
