What size wire do you need for 50 amp sub panel about 200 feet away?

Answer 1

Well, honey, for a 50 amp sub panel 200 feet away, you're gonna need a 6-gauge wire. Anything smaller and you'll be playing with fire, and not in a fun way. So do yourself a favor and splurge on that thicker wire to avoid any potential disasters down the line.

Answer 2

This answer assumes that the sub panel will have a three wire feeding it with a supply of 120/240 volts. To maintain the voltage to a 2.5 % drop at the end of the 200 foot run, you will need to use 3 runs of #4 copper wire cable suitable for underground installations if installed in PVC conduit. You can also use 3C - #2 ACWU for direct burial. #4 copper wire is rated at 85 amps, #2 aluminum is rated at 95 amps. The reason for the larger sizes in the wire is to offset the voltage drop over the distance.

Answer 3

A 1/0 MCM copper conductor will limit the voltage drop to 3% or less when supplying 100 amps for 250 feet on a 240/120 volt system. This calculation is for a full 100 amps at the panel. If exact amperage is known the conductor size can be reduced to match the known amperage.

Answer 4

This is a voltage drop question. The sub panel's voltage needs to be stated to answer the distance part of the question. A #3 copper conductor with an insulation factor of 75 or 90 degree C is rated at 100 and 105 amps respectively.

Answer 5

This is a voltage drop question. A voltage is not stated. For calculation purposes the voltage of 240 volts will be use. This also assumes that the sub-panel is protected by a 100 amp breaker and it will be fully loaded.The code book suggest that a 3% voltage drop should be the maximum allowed. A 1/0 copper or 2/0 aluminium conductor will limit the voltage drop to 3% or less when supplying 100 amps for 275 feet on a 240 volt system.

Answer 6

For a 50 amp subpanel located 200 feet away, you would need to use at least a 6-gauge copper wire to ensure minimal voltage drop and safe operation. It is recommended to consult with an electrician for a precise calculation based on the specific circumstances of your installation.

Answer 7

I wold recommend running 2awg aluminum unless you plan to heavily load the panel in which case i would go to 1/0 aluminum. See View Discussion below.