For example, if a wire of too small gauge is used with a high amp break, then the wire can overheat and catch fire long before the circuit breaker ever trips. If the improper gauge wire is used with the wrong size circuit breaker, it can easily result in a fire or a malfunctioning electrical circuit. Twelve-gauge wire is heavier and will carry more of a load than 14-gauge wire but is smaller than 10-gauge wire and will carry less of a load than the 10 gauge. The smaller the number the heavier gauge the wire. Again, heavier gauges and higher amp circuit breakers must be used for certain appliances that use more electricity and as dictated by local and state building codes.Įlectrical wire is gauged like shot for a shotgun. These two size wires are the standard that are used in homes today for most lighting and wall outlets. For example, 14/2 gauge electrical wire is rated to a maximum of 15 amps and should not be used with any circuit breaker larger than 15 amps.12/2 gauge wiring is rated to a maximum of 20 amps.
Electrical wire and circuit breakers are designed to work in tandem with one another, and each must be of a proper corresponding size. The heavier the gauge, i.e., the thicker the copper wire, the more electrical current it can carry without overheating. A home’s electrical system is designed to work off 120 volts with the exception of certain major appliances, such as an electric clothes dryer, which runs off 240 volts.Įlectrical wiring comes in different gauges, or sizes.
From the breaker box, this flow of electricity is spread over numerous circuits to different parts of the home by first passing through individual circuit breakers which serve as a safety mechanism to keep the system from being overloaded. This article will attempt to reveal some of the mystery surrounding the maze of wiring that runs throughout your home and that makes everything in it work with the flick of a switch.Įlectricity enters every home by running through a power meter supplied by the local utility company, then, in most cases, through a master 200-amp circuit breaker, and then to the home’s breaker box, often still referred to as a fuse box. It is helpful for every DIY-minded homeowner to have at least a basic understanding of electrical work.
Electrical wiring for dummies pdf how to#
Photography by Zoe Thomas How To Wire A HouseĮlectrical work, like everything else in life, can run the gamut from very basic to extremely complex.