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There is a formula based on wire type, length, and current. The easiest way nowadays is to use an online calculator. Remember when using that calculator that both wires in the circuit count (hot & neutral), so don't divide the length by 2. Just enter the length of your run.

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16y ago
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15y ago

Wire sizes are calculated on the amperage that the load draws. For a certain load amps you will need a specific wire size and a breaker to match the amperage flowing through that wire. A few common wire sizes and amperages you would find in your house #14 - 15 amps, #12 - 20 amps, #10 - 30 amps and #8 - 40 amps. These are published in the electrical code book.

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13y ago

Several different factors must always be considered when deciding the correct wire size to use:

  • amperage, which is the current to be supplied, measured in amps?
  • length of wire-run?
  • installation situation/site conditions?
    • run inside a conduit?
    • exposed to the air fixed to a wall?
    • extreme heat?
    • damp conditions?
    • underground?

To get the right answers refer to the Wiring Codes or Regulations for your locality. (Town/State.)

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As always, if you are in doubt about what to do, the best advice anyone should give you is to call a licensed electrician to advise what work is needed.

Before you do any work yourself,

on electrical circuits, equipment or appliances,

always use a test meter to ensure the circuit is, in fact, de-energized.

IF YOU ARE NOT ALREADY SURE YOU CAN DO THIS JOB

SAFELY AND COMPETENTLY

REFER THIS WORK TO QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS.

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10y ago

To select an appropriate wire guage you must need electric appliance wattage and divide it with volt (i.e. 1000 watt electric iron just 1000/220=4.54 amp) Do remember to divide your amp with .80 because you will never to want to put the load according to the wire capacity, by dividing .80 mean wire does has appro. 20% more capacity than the appliance. so now you have 1000/220/.80=5.68 amp. now you can easily find out the proper guage by visiting the Chart as below or any one else: -

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-C8qXuqgSdrg/learn/learningcenter/car/cable_gauge_chart.html

You are also advised to take professional's guidence as per the above given information is collected from the internet.

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16y ago

By the voltage supplied and current needed by the speakers to satisfy the speaker watts specfications.

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Q: How do you determine best gauge of wire to use?
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