WIRING

WIRES & CABLE

Wires are made of copper, aluminum, or aluminum covered with a thin layer of copper. Solid copper wires are the best conductors of electricity and are the most widely used. Aluminum and copper-covered aluminum wires require special installation techniques.

A group of two or more wires enclosed in a metal, rubber, or plastic sheath is called a cable. The sheath protects the wires from damage. Metal conduit also protects wires, but it is not considered a cable.

Individual wires are covered with rubber or plastic vinyl insulation. An exception is a bare copper grounding wire, which does not need an insulation cover. The insulation is color coded (chart, below) to identify the wire as a hot wire, a neutral wire, or a grounding wire.

In most wiring systems installed after 1965, the wires and cables are insulated with plastic vinyl. This type of insulation is very durable and can last as long as the house itself.

Before 1965, wires and cables were insulated with rubber. Rubber insulation has a life expectancy of about 25 years. Old insulation that is cracked or damaged can be reinforced temporarily by wrapping the wire with plastic electrical tape. However, old wiring with cracked or damaged insulation should be inspected by a qualified electrician to make sure it is safe.

Wires must be large enough for the amperage rating of the circuit (chart, right). A wire that is too small can become dangerously hot. Wire sizes are categorized according to the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system. To check the size of a wire, use the wire stripper openings of a combination tool (page 325) as a guide.

Wire Color Chart Image

Wire color   Function
Image White Neutral wire carrying current at zero voltage.
Image Black Hot wire carrying current at full voltage.
Image Red Hot wire carrying current at full voltage.
Image White, black markings Hot wire carrying current at full voltage.
Image Green Serves as a grounding pathway.
Image Bare copper Serves as a grounding pathway.

Individual wires are color-coded to identify their function. In some circuit installations, the white wire serves as a hot wire that carries voltage. If so, this white wire may be labeled with black tape or paint to identify it as a hot wire.

Wire Size Chart Image

Wire gauge   Wire capacity & use
Image #6 60 amps, 240 volts; central air conditioner, electric furnace.
Image #8 40 amps, 240 volts; electric range, central air conditioner.
Image #10 30 amps, 240 volts; window air conditioner, clothes dryer.
Image #12 20 amps, 120 volts; light fixtures, receptacles, microwave oven.
Image #14 15 amps, 120 volts; light fixtures, receptacles.
Image #16 Light-duty extension cords.
Image #18 to 22 Thermostats, doorbells, security systems.

Wire sizes (shown actual size) are categorized by the American Wire Gauge system. The larger the wire size, the smaller the AWG number.