To solve the voltage drop problem, you can make the sub panel closer to the appliance or upgrade the panel based on your needed amps. As a result, your appliances and lighting may become less efficient or malfunction. There is a strong possibility of a voltage drop in a circuit line more than 100 feet in length. It is to reduce the resistance that is caused by the longer travel of current and obstacles such as the curving or bending of wires.Īdditionally, using the smallest 40 amp wire gauge of 8 AWG here may result in an insufficient voltage supply. There is no problem using the minimum recommended 40 amp breaker wire size if the circuit line is below 100 feet.īut if the distance is 100 feet or more, it is worth considering using a 6 gauge size wire for a 40 amp breaker. Considering upgrading your circuit breaker and wire is necessary if you need a higher amount of electricity in your circuit. The same method is applied to an even lower amp like 30 amp, or even 15 amp circuit breakers. It is only applicable to use more than 80% up to the maximum capacity of the breaker if the usage is application start-up and does not exceed the breaker’s maximum capacity. This means that if you are using an 8 wire gauge for 40 amp, you are only allowed to use a 32 amps maximum of continuous loads. ![]() Anything more than this rule may result in the constant tripping of a circuit breaker due to circuit overloads. 80% NEC RuleĪccording to the NEC, 80% of the circuit breaker’s total capacity is allowable for continued usage (3 hours or longer). It can also help you figure out what circuit breaker is best to use for the different circuits and appliances in your house.Īside from the wire size, there are also many things to consider when installing a new circuit. This video by Starving Electrician will not only help you identify what size of wire is recommended for different circuits. It will result in less resistance in current flow as well as less heat build-up – meaning, you can install a 220v 40 amp wire size of 6 gauge safely and without violating any NEC rules. In contrast, using a larger wire is safer and ideal for many residential houses. This problem is hazardous since it can melt the insulator and cause a short circuit in the line. Using a smaller wire (than stated above) in a 40 amp service may affect the current flow and cause high resistance and heat build-up. ![]() The wire size determines the electrical resistance and the sustainable amount of current. Using a larger wire size is suitable for future circuit expansion and adding some high-powered devices. However, some professional electricians prefer to use a 6 gauge wire, and there is nothing wrong with it. ![]()
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