Gauge, Amperage, and Recommended Best Cable Length
Gauge, Amperage, and Recommended Best Cable Length
This is a chart that shows the relationship between Gauge, Amperage, and Recommended Best Cable Length
- Cable gauge is a unit of measurement for the diameter of electrical wire. A lower gauge number indicates a larger diameter wire. Thicker wires can handle higher amperage (electrical current).
- Amperage is the amount of electrical current flowing through a conductor in a circuit. It is measured in amps (A).
The chart lists different cable gauges (16, 14, 12, and 10) and their corresponding amperage capacities at different lengths (50ft, 100ft, 150ft, 200ft, and 250ft). For example, a 16-gauge cable can safely carry 13 amps at 50ft, but only 7 amps at 250ft.
The chart also includes a typical usage guide that suggests which appliances can be safely used with each cable gauge and length. For example, a 14-gauge cable at 100ft is suitable for power tools like drills, while a 12-gauge cord at 150ft is recommended for heavy-duty appliances like circular saws.
Here are some additional things to note from the chart:
- The amperage rating of a cord decreases as the length of the cord increases. This is because longer cords have more resistance, which causes voltage drop. Voltage drop is the decrease in voltage that occurs when current flows through a conductor.
- The chart recommends not using certain cable gauges and lengths at all. For example, a 16-gauge cord should not be used at lengths greater than 150ft.
It is important to choose the right cable gauge and length for your application to avoid overloading the circuit and potential fire hazards. When in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a cord with a higher amperage rating than you think you need. You can also consult a qualified electrician to help you choose the right cord for your specific needs.