answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

You need 14-gauge wire for 15-amp circuits, and 12-gauge wire for 20-amp circuits.

<<>>

The question is confusing the ability of a wire to carry current, with the insulation factor of the wire. Any size wire can carry 120 volts. The insulation factor determines how much voltage can be applied to a wire. Standard wire voltages come in three voltages, 300, 600 and 1000 volt ratings. These ratings are up to and including, so 300 volt insulation wire will handle 120, 208, 240, and 277 volts. 600 volt insulation will handle all of the 300 volt range plus 347,415, 480 and 575 volts. 1000 volt insulation will handle all of the 300 and 600 volt ranges plus different voltages up to 1000 volts.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar
More answers
User Avatar

AnswerBot

6mo ago

For a 120-volt circuit, a 14-gauge wire is typically used for general household wiring. However, the specific gauge can vary depending on factors such as the length of the wire run and the electrical load it will be carrying. It's always recommended to consult local electrical codes and a professional electrician for precise guidance.

This answer is:
User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

if it's a 120 volt circuit then #14 is good, most people will run #12, but #14 is the lowest you can go by code.

Another AnswerACTUALLY...

you need to make certain that a circuit is protected with the proper circuit breaker.

If you'll be using 12 AWG wire you should connect it to a 20 Amp breaker.

If you'll be using 14 AWG wire you should connect it to a 15 Amp breaker.

ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS make certain that you don't use a breaker that's too large for the wire. If a breaker can push too much current through the wire you run a great risk of causing a fire.

It's all about the amps, not the volts.

I made the mistake of not mentioning amperage. Serves me right for answering questions at 3am.... Do what the person above me is saying.

This answer is:
User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago

Amps= watts divided by voltage so: 2000/120= 16 amps.

For small distances a 12 guage extension cord can be used.

For greater distances > 100ft drop a guage to 10 guage wire.

Longer the wiring the bigger the wire needs to be.

This answer is:
User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

7y ago

The equation to find amperage is I = W/E. Amps = Watts/Volts.

For home wiring the smallest size wire usable is #14.

A #14 copper conductor with an insulation rating of 90 degrees C is rated at 15 amps.

This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What gauge wire is used to carry 120 volts?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

How many volts will 4 gauge wire handle?

the gauge of the wire determines how much amperage a wire can carry the insulation determines how much voltage the wire can handle


What gauge wire do you need to carry 240 volts 1000 yards?

Wire sizes are governed by the amperage the wire is to carry. To answer this question the load current is required.


What wire gauge is needed to carry 150 amps at 240 volts?

At the service entrance you will need AWG 1/0 gauge.


Can 14 gauge wire carry 220 volt?

Wire guage is used as a measurement for the ampacity of the wire. # 14 wire is allowed 15 amp to be applied to it. Voltage is governed by the insulation factor of the wire. The three standard insulations are for 300V, 600V and 1000 volts.


What is the ampere rating of a 8 gauge wire at 240 volts?

The ampacity of an 8 gauge wire at 240 volts would depend on the specific type of wire and the installation conditions. Generally, an 8 gauge wire can safely carry around 40-50 amps of current. It is important to consult the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations for precise guidance.


Can 10-2 wire carry 220 volts?

Yes, 10-2 wire can carry 220 volts. The 10-2 wire refers to the wire gauge and number of conductors, which is suitable for carrying 220 volts in residential electrical wiring applications. Make sure to follow local electrical codes and consult with a licensed electrician for proper installation.


What gauge wire would you need to carry 100 amps at 12 volts dc?

A #3 copper wire with an insulation factor 90 degree C is rated at 105 amps.


What gauge wire would you need to carry 40 amps at 12 volts dc?

A #8 wire with an insulation rating of 75 or 90 degrees C is rated at 45 amps.


What is ampere rating of 10 gauge wire at 120 volts and at 240 volts?

30 amps.


14 wire for 2.4kw?

14 gauge wire is for 15 amp circuits. At 220 volts that would be enough for 2.4 kw.At 120 volts it would need 12 gauge wire which is rated for 20 amps.


What is the use of wire gauge?

Wire gauge is used to determine the size wire needed to carry the correct amount of current for the job. It must be sized appropriately for the current in the circuit you are building.


How many watts can 110 wire carry?

A 110V wire can typically carry around 15-20 amps safely, depending on the wire gauge and insulation. Using the formula Watts = Volts x Amps, this would allow the wire to carry up to 1650-2200 watts. However, it's always recommended to consult a professional electrician for specific calculations and safety considerations.