DIY Electrical: Electrical Wire Types and How To Choose the Right One

Electrical wiring is essential for any home or building, and if you’re taking on a DIY electrical project, it is very important that you select the correct type of wire. Your electrical project will succeed with the right type of wire, but selecting the wrong type of wire could lead to various problems or safety hazards.

In this blog post, we will discuss the different electrical wire types and how to choose the right one for your DIY project. By the time you reach the conclusion, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best wire for your electrical needs.

Important Facts To Know About Electrical Wiring

Electrical outlets, or plugs or receptacles, are the connection point for electrical devices to access power. These outlets come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate the specific amperage rating and voltage requirements of the powered appliances or devices. One crucial feature of outlets is their incorporation of safety switches, which automatically cut off the power supply in cases of overload or electrical short circuits within the outlet or wiring system.

For the electrical system to function properly, the circuit breaker associated with an outlet must match the voltage and amperage needs of the intended application. Acting as the conduit for electricity, wiring is typically made of copper, known for its good conductivity, and is insulated with materials like rubber, plastic, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The type and size of wire chosen depend on several factors, which we will explore further.

The voltage rating of a wire indicates its capacity to safely carry electrical current without causing damage or overheating. A higher voltage rating allows for a greater flow of electrical current. Most residential wiring applications employ 120 volts, while larger appliances such as stoves and air conditioners typically require 220 volts.

Amperage rating refers to the maximum amount of current that a wire can safely handle without overheating. If a device or appliance requires a higher rating than what the wire’s rated amperage can handle, installing an appropriately sized circuit breaker and considering additional feeder lines is essential.

Wire gauge, which indicates the diameter of the electrical wire, plays a significant role in determining its current-carrying capacity. Larger gauge wires can carry more current due to their thicker diameter and lower resistance. In general, 14-gauge wire is suitable for most household appliances, while 12-gauge wire is preferable for high-powered home theater systems or heavy-duty electronics that require a stronger electrical flow.

Conductivity is an important consideration when choosing wire material. Different materials exhibit varying degrees of conductivity. Copper is highly conductive compared to aluminum. The appropriate choice of wire material depends on its purpose and environment. Each type of wire material has advantages and disadvantages when carrying electricity without damage.

Insulation protects wires from abrasion, moisture, and other environmental elements. Various insulation types, including PVC, rubber/elastomeric, and silicone, offer different levels of protection based on their intended application or location. Whether the wires are running outside or through areas exposed to extreme temperatures, selecting the appropriate insulation is vital to prevent damage over time.

Different Types of Electrical Wire

Non-metallic sheathed cable, or NM cable, is a type of wiring comprising two or three insulated conductors encased in an outer sheathing. This cable is commonly used for small-scale projects such as lighting fixtures due to its low voltage rating of up to 600 volts. It offers affordability and easy installation, making it suitable for projects requiring minimal tools and maintenance. The insulated sheathing protects against electrical shorts.

Metal-clad cable, or armored cable, features a metallic covering that protects against moisture and physical damage. It is designed for outdoor applications where durability is crucial. The metal armor, made of galvanized steel tape or interlocked aluminum strips, prevents corrosion and rust, ensuring the integrity of the wiring insulation. With a higher voltage rating of up to 2000 volts, MC cable is suitable for larger installations that require power distribution.

Armored cable shares similarities with MC cable but offers an additional layer of protection. It includes a nonmetallic sheath around its plastic sleeve, providing enhanced resistance against abrasion. This makes it well-suited for outdoor environments, making it a preferred choice over MC cable. However, AC cable typically has a lower amperage rating and is not recommended for situations where a significant amount of current must be distributed to multiple outlets.

High-temperature wire, or THHN wire, is designed for applications involving high temperatures. It is commonly used in swimming pools, furnaces, and air conditioners. THHN wire has a higher voltage rating of up to 600 volts and is available in larger gauge sizes to handle heavy-duty electronics and appliances. It offers improved safety and higher temperature tolerances, providing reliable insulation in extreme conditions.

Low-voltage wire is specifically designed for low-voltage applications, typically 24 to 120 volts. It is commonly used in household appliances like washers, dryers, refrigerators, and TVs to prevent overloads. LV wire consists of two conductors and one ground wire. It should not be confused with “low voltage lighting systems,” which use only one conductor. LV wire ensures improved safety at lower currents and offers extra insulation for applications at lower voltages.

UF wire, or “underground feeder” wire, is designed for reliable connections without a conduit. It features a UV-resistant plastic covering over its solid copper conductors, making it suitable for long-distance outdoor applications. UF wire offers benefits such as easier installation and secure connections, making it ideal for scenarios where running conduits is impossible, such as connecting detached buildings and landscape lighting.

Service entrance cable, or SE cable, includes two conductors and one grounding wire. It provides reliable connections at higher voltages, up to 600 volts, to handle heavy-duty electronics and appliances. It is commonly used for feeding main power into residential and commercial buildings.

Safety Concerns And Professional Assistance

When undertaking DIY electrical work, it is important to know the potential hazards involved, particularly in larger projects involving high voltages or heavy currents. The risks can include electric shocks or electrocutions and the possibility of fires due to inadequate precautions. Without professional consultation, these risks can arise from incorrect sizing, installation, or maintenance procedures. It is crucial to prioritize safety and seek professional assistance when necessary to ensure the proper handling of electrical projects.

When in doubt, it is best to leave electrical tasks to qualified electricians. This includes installations related to the main power and large-scale lighting setups. Professionals with experience in these areas are familiar with sealing regulations and codes. Calling an electrician ensures the work is done correctly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, electrical wiring is an important part of any home or building project. It’s important to have the correct type of wire for the job to do the project safely. With so many different types of electrical wire available, it can be overwhelming to understand their differences. In this post, we’ve discussed the different types of electrical wire and factors to consider when choosing the right type for your project. By understanding these different factors, you can select the right wire for your project and ensure it is properly installed, maintained, and protected. Always remember that safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to electrical wiring. If you feel uncomfortable with the project, it’s best to call an electrician for assistance.