By Dave Rongey Summary:
Electrical Circuits Question: I'm wiring approximately 30 feet of wire for a circuit underneath my house .Should I use 12-2 or 10-3 due to the length Thanks- Mike M.
The Correct Wire Size for a Microwave Oven Circuit
I'm wiring approximately 30 feet of wire for a circuit underneath my house.
Should I use 12-2 or 10-3 due to the length.
Thanks- Mike M.
Hi Mike - Great Electrical Repair Question!
Mike, 30 feet is not a distance to be concerned about as it applies to voltage drop. What you need to pay attention to is what the circuit is to be used for, in other words, what is the application for the new circuit?
For example:
General purpose lighting and/or outlets can be wired with 12-2 Type-NM cable placed on a 20 amp circuit breaker, or 14-2 Type-NM cable placed on a 15 amp circuit breaker.
On the website there is a chart showing wire sizes and amperages which should be helpful as well on the electrical wire page. The chart on the page will provide the information you need to select your wire size.
Dave
I'm wiring for a microwave oven which pulls approximately 12 amps.
Thanks Mike.
Hi Mike,
A 20 amp circuit using 12/2 romex would do just fine. Don't forget to get a permit and an inspection!
For best results hire an electrical contractor.
Dave
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This is a testing tool that is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
This is great to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring, is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect, Very handy and easy to use.
A wire stripping tool used to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.
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