Frequently Asked Questions
What amperage can common wire gauges carry?
Per NEC Table 310.16 (60°C/75°C copper): 14 AWG = 15A, 12 AWG = 20A, 10 AWG = 30A, 8 AWG = 40–50A, 6 AWG = 55–65A, 4 AWG = 70–85A. Higher temperature ratings (90°C THHN/THWN-2) allow more current but are limited by the terminal's rating, which is usually 75°C.
When do I need to upsize wire beyond the ampacity table?
Long runs (voltage drop), high ambient temperature (derate 0.82 at 96°F per NEC 310.15(B)(1)), more than 3 current-carrying conductors in a conduit (derate per 310.15(C)(1)), and continuous loads (size at 125% of load per 210.19/215.2). Solar PV typically requires 156% sizing.
How does AWG numbering work?
Smaller AWG number = larger wire. Each 3-step decrease in AWG roughly doubles the cross-sectional area; each 6-step decrease doubles the diameter. So 6 AWG has 4× the area of 12 AWG. Above 4/0 ("0000"), wires are sized by kcmil (thousand circular mils) instead of AWG.
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