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Wire Gauge Tables
Observe Proper Wire Size The most important wiring practice is to observe proper wire size. Failure to use adequate size can result in fire. Even if fire doesn't result, wires that are too small will cause marginal performance of electrical equipment.
Using the Table The table shows the wire size required for a 3% voltage drop in 12 Volt circuits. To use the table, first calculate the total length of the wire from the source to the device and back again. Next, determine the amount of current in the wire. The wire gauge is found at the intersection of Amps and Feet. In most load circuits, a 3% drop is quite acceptable. In charging circuits it often pays to have less of a drop. Always use one size bigger if practical.
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