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The 10 refers to the gauge of the wire--how thick it is. The smaller the number, the larger the wire and the more current it can carry. The 3 indicates there are three insulated 10 gauge wires wrapped in an outer jacket.
Most circuits are wired with thinner wire--14 gauge copper for 15 amperes and 12 gauge for 20 amperes. 10 gauge wire would be used for a larger load, up to 30 amps; the three conductor wire would be used to connect 240 volts. This would use two "hot" wires and a neutral. In most cases, a fourth grounding wire would be required as well.
So 10/3 wire would be used to connect something that takes a lot of power: an electric clothes dryer or large shop tool. It would usually be a dedicated circuit with a 30 amp circuit breaker.
Most 10/3 wire now has an orange outer jacket for easy identification, but it is not required to be orange.
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10/3 wire means that there are 3 current-carrying wires plus an earth wire ( 4 wires in total). It can be used for a high-power 240 v appliance.
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Can you use 10-3 wire instead of 10-2 wire for basic wiring?
Yes, you can use 10-3 wire instead of 10-2 wire for basic wiring. The extra conductor in the 10-3 wire is typically used for grounding or carrying an additional circuit, providing more flexibility for future electrical needs. Just make sure to properly connect and terminate the wires according to the electrical code requirements.
What is difference between 10-2 and 10-3 wire?
The main difference between 10-2 and 10-3 wire is the number of conductors they have. 10-2 wire has two conductors, typically used for a hot wire and a neutral wire. 10-3 wire has three conductors, typically used for a hot wire, a neutral wire, and a ground wire.
What breaker do you use for 10-2 wire?
For 10-2 wire, you would typically use a 30-amp breaker. This size breaker is commonly used for 10-gauge wire in residential electrical installations. Make sure to check your local electrical codes and the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific application.
Is 10-3 wire heavy enough for a washer-dryer combination if they are 50 feet away from the breaker box?
No, for a 50-foot run from the breaker box, 10-3 wire is not heavy enough for a washer-dryer combination. It is recommended to use 8-3 wire for this distance to ensure safe and efficient electrical supply for the appliances.
How coils of wire can be used to wire a 3 bedroom self contained house?
Coils of wire can be used to wire a 3 bedroom self-contained house by running the wires from the breaker box to various electrical outlets, switches, and light fixtures throughout the house. The wires are typically hidden behind walls and ceilings for safety and aesthetics. It is important to follow electrical codes and consult a professional electrician to ensure proper installation and safety.
