G
Guest
I want to install a 20 amp breaker in an existing breaker box what guage of wire do i need to use?
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G
Guest
Tystick said:
find a sparky one that is good you will pay for it but go for it
Closet Grower
New member
20 amp circuit, you use a minimum 12awg, upto a 60 foot lenght. Over 60 ft, up size to 10awg.
G
Guest
Thats correct man but I do this every day and voltage drop just isnt an issue until you get around 100ft.,and if its a 240V circuit you can go a little farther before upsizing.Good info though but I've noticed too big a deal being made on voltage drop in a lot of posts.The difference in price between #12 and #10 these days is unbelievable!
BudGood2006
Member
Man, I hear that! Copper prices have went through the damn roof, people are even stealing wiring and water pipes from houses around here! 
Skeletor is correct, you will not really have a problem with voltage drop until around 100 ft or so. It's good that people pay attention to these things, but some do blow it out of proportion.
If you have a sparky friend that has a digital voltmeter, or you have one, take a voltage reading at the panel or wherever you are getting the power from (subpanel). Then take a reading at the outlet where the utilization equipment is connected (fans, ballasts, etc) Compare the two readings, a voltage drop of more than 3 percent (3.6 volts for 120v) is not acceptable. Under that, don't bother.
Skeletor is correct, you will not really have a problem with voltage drop until around 100 ft or so. It's good that people pay attention to these things, but some do blow it out of proportion.
If you have a sparky friend that has a digital voltmeter, or you have one, take a voltage reading at the panel or wherever you are getting the power from (subpanel). Then take a reading at the outlet where the utilization equipment is connected (fans, ballasts, etc) Compare the two readings, a voltage drop of more than 3 percent (3.6 volts for 120v) is not acceptable. Under that, don't bother.
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G
Guest
Thanks guys im only running about 25-30ft so i plan on picking up some 12.
Closet Grower
New member
I see that a little more for wire today, will be cheaper in the long run, for the peace of mind. I have seen old knob and tube wiring, about 50 years old, 14awg and 15 amp breaker, hold under about 400 watts lights and a 1200watt window ac unit running. It works most of the time. Still wonder when the fire department is going to need to show up???? Hopefuly, the plug contacts will fail first, and limit the hazard.
Safety first. It is easy to overload.
Safety first. It is easy to overload.
