WIRE GAUGE CALCULATOR
// FREE AWG SIZE CALCULATOR // NEC COMPLIANT // VOLTAGE DROP ANALYSIS //
*Al is ~30-40% cost of Cu, but requires upsizing.
Standard Breaker Sizes (Amps)
*Always size breaker to protect the weakest link.
| Size (EMT) | #12 THHN | #10 THHN |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2" | 9 | 5 |
| 3/4" | 16 | 10 |
| 1" | 26 | 16 |
NEC 310.15(B)(16): Allowable Ampacities of Insulated Conductors.
NEC 240.4(D): Small Conductor Protection (14AWG=15A, 12AWG=20A, 10AWG=30A).
- Garage Subpanel60A / 240V / 25m
- Kitchen Island20A / 120V / 12m
- AC Unit30A / 240V / 5m
NEC Compliant
Calculations align with NEC 310-16 standards for maximum safety.
Material Data
Auto-correction for Copper vs Aluminum resistivity profiles.
Drop Protection
Immediate alerts when voltage drop exceeds the critical 3% threshold.
Safe Capacity
Verifies load against maximum allowable ampacity per gauge.
Why keep voltage drop under 3%?
Excessive voltage drop causes dimming lights, overheated motors, and potential equipment failure. NEC recommends max 3% for feeders.
Copper vs Aluminum?
Copper offers better conductivity and is standard for indoor wiring. Aluminum is lighter/cheaper, often used for service entrances, but requires larger gauges.
Solid vs Stranded Wire?
Solid wire is rigid and good for outdoor/backbone. Stranded is flexible, ideal for pulling through conduit.
Need complex subpanel design?
Consult a licensed P.E.
HOW_TO_USE
// CALCULATE WIRE GAUGE IN THREE STEPS //
1. INPUT_SPECS
Enter voltage, current, distance, and material. Or select a quick scenario.
2. INSTANT_CALC
Results update in real-time. No button clicking needed.
3. GET_RESULT
Receive NEC-compliant AWG size with voltage drop analysis.
FAQ_DATABASE
// COMMON QUERIES //
ABOUT_SYSTEM
// COMPREHENSIVE WIRE SIZING TOOL //
Our wire gauge calculator helps electricians, engineers, and DIY enthusiasts determine the correct AWG wire size for any electrical application. The calculator considers voltage, current, wire length, and conductor material to ensure your selection maintains voltage drop below the NEC-recommended 3% threshold.
Whether you're installing an EV charger, running a subpanel to your garage, or wiring a new kitchen circuit, proper wire sizing is critical for safety and code compliance.
WHY_PROPER_WIRE_SIZING_MATTERS
COMMON_APPLICATIONS
| Application | Typical Current | Voltage | Recommended Wire |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Lighting | 15A | 120V | 14 AWG |
| Kitchen/Bath Outlets | 20A | 120V | 12 AWG |
| Electric Dryer | 30A | 240V | 10 AWG |
| Electric Range | 40-50A | 240V | 8-6 AWG |
| EV Charger (Level 2) | 48A | 240V | 6 AWG |
| 100A Subpanel | 100A | 240V | 3 AWG |
| 200A Service | 200A | 240V | 2/0-4/0 AWG |
*Wire sizes assume short distances (under 50 ft). Longer runs may require upsizing for voltage drop.
DISTRIBUTE_TOOL
Help others calculate the correct wire gauge. Share this free tool with colleagues and friends.