![]() A #2/0 copper wire and a #4/0 aluminum wire can maintain less than a 3% voltage drop over 50 feet. Distance: Related to the voltage drop, if you need power across distances longer than 50 feet, you’ll probably want a copper wire.You can improve your voltage drop by increasing the gauge of your wire. Voltage drop means how much power is lost as electricity moves along the wire to your devices and appliances. Voltage Drop: The voltage at your circuit breaker should be 120 volts.Other Factors to Considerīefore you make your final decision, you need to consider a few other factors. The Short Answer: Like with aluminum, you’ll need a #4/0 copper-clad aluminum wire for a 200 amp service. Good Conductivity: Again, copper-clad aluminum runs somewhat in the middle of the other two regarding conductivity.Most aluminum needs an antioxidant coating connecting to the power terminal, but copper-clad aluminum doesn’t need it. More Corrosion Resistant Than Aluminum: Copper-clad aluminum wire protects the aluminum from corrosion.Cheaper but Not Cheapest: Copper-clad aluminum is more affordable than pure copper but more expensive than aluminum.AluminumĬopper-clad aluminum is your third option, and it provides some of the benefits of both previous options. The Short Answer: When using a 200 amp service, you’ll want a #2/0 copper wire. In for the Distance: Again, since copper is so highly conductive and sturdy, it’s better for length and doesn’t lose its voltage over longer distances.Īgain, copper is probably the best material for wiring, but it does have downsides, which we’ll touch on in the next section.Flexible: Since you can use thinner strands of copper wire, it’s much easier to bend and wrap without breaking.Heat doesn’t cause it to expand or flex nearly as much, so it stays in place. It’s also a lot more heat-resistant than aluminum. Copper is corrosion-resistant and will stand the test of time. Heat and Corrosion Resistant: While copper changes color from oxidation, those changes don’t affect its performance.Because it’s great at conducting electricity, you can use it for much longer distances, and you can use a much smaller gauge than for aluminum. Only silver is better at conducting electricity. High Conductivity: Copper is a naturally highly conductive metal.Here’s everything you need to know about copper wiring: However, copper can be more expensive and more complex to install. Its high conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance, and flexibility make it ideal for wiring in any situation. ![]() Copper WiringĬopper wiring is the best in the business. Then we’ll get into the factors you should consider when choosing your wiring. Let’s look at the difference between a copper wire and an aluminum or copper-clad aluminum wire. The size wire you need for 200 amp service depends on the type of wire you’re getting. What Size Wire Do You Need for 200 Amp Service Don’t worry – we’ll explain each of these in detail below. You’ll need to consider a few things when selecting your wiring, including your personal preferences, the voltage drop, and the length of the wire. #4/0 aluminum or copper-clad aluminum wire.While you’ll need a qualified electrician, it’s good to know the basics ahead of time. Installing a 200 amp service requires a permit and professional experience. Knowing what size wire for 200 amp service is critical to setting up your electric system to work for years to come. We need electrical panels that can handle the digital future, and many homeowners are upgrading their systems to 200 amp service. Smart homes and digital connectedness are the future for homeowners.
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