Electric Furnace Wire Gauge

I need help wiring an electric furnace with heat elements.

Electric furnace wire gauge.

The exact amps an electric furnace requires is solely based on the size of the furnace and its performance capabilities. The n gauge wire resistance r in ohms per kilometer ω km is equal to 1000000000 times the wire s resistivity ρ in ohm meters ω m divided by the cross sectional area an in square millimeters mm2. 10560 watts 240 volts. The size of a breaker is determined by the amp draw.

For instance wire from a power source to an electric heating element may be a larger 10 or 8 gauge 105c wire. 12 gauge wire which is used regularly in households for general power to outlets and most appliances. 13200 watts 240 volts. Building wire is typically run through conduit cable trays or raceways.

Stranded wire will carry more of a load than solid. Do keep in mind that other wiring found in a furnace may be larger than 14 gauge but it is usually for direct wiring ie no plugs used. Standard circuit breakers are better. Building cable consists of multiple strands of wire bundled inside a thermoplastic or metal sheath.

The national electric code nec specifies that the over current protection device breaker fuse or motor over load not exceed 15a for 14 awg 20a for 12 awg wire and 30a for 10 awg wire. However typically electric furnaces require a draw between 60 and 80 amps. How do i wire an electric furnace with heating elements. 10 gauge wire commonly run for air conditioners and water heaters.

Building wire and cable carry electrical current from a power source to a device in a building such as an outlet or light fixture. Recommended 80 wattage load. Wire and cable gauge. Circuit breakers protect home electrical wiring and equipment like furnaces air conditioners dryers and stoves.

To help you understand which electrical protection goes where consider what each type of breaker was designed to do and make sure to follow the national electric code. 6 wire. 8 and lower gauge wire used for feeding a subpanel electric range oven etc. I ran number 6 wire with ground from my 100 amp service box where i installed a 60amp double pole breaker.

14 gauge wire primarily used for lighting circuits. Rn ω km 10 9 ρ ω m an mm2. I have installed an electric furnace with a 15 kw heat element.