A 220 volt wire size guide will come in handy when trying to determine the wire gauge needed for this type of circuit. It basically depends on how many amperes will be going through the wire. If it is 20 amperes, a 12 gauge wire will be sufficient.
The following is a guide to the AWG specs and their maximum copper currents. For 14 gauge it is 15 amps; for 12 gauge: 20 amps; 10 gauge: 30 amps and 8 gauge, 48 amps. For a 6 gauge wire, it is 65 amps. For a 4 gauge it is 89 amps. For a 2 gauge wire it is 119 amps, and for a 0 gauge it is 163 amps. 00 gauge wires have a cooper maximum current of 186 amps. The maximum copper wire current for a 000 gauge is 214 amps. For a 0000 gauge it is 253 amps.
Ensure the proper wire dimensions are utilized for an appliance’s current draw. If the appliance is 50 feet from the electrical panel, you must use a disconnect. There are different types of disconnects, and a plug is one of them.
Types of 220v Outlets
There are several outlet variants such as C, G, I, F and D electrical outlets. In the US, the best known is the 3-wire receptacle which can accommodate 2 or 3-prong plugs. Type C is capable of producing 220 volts.
Type C is widely used in Europe. Type F has two earth clips. It is often used in the Netherlands, Spain and Turkey. Type I is often found in China, New Zealand and American Samoa.
Electrical codes are always being changed. Verify with the National Electrical Code in your area to make sure you have the latest codes.
Notes on Wiring Appliances
Before relying on a 220 volt wire size guide, read the appliance manual. Check what current and proper voltage is needed. You have to find out the wire dimensions and how many conductors are required. Some appliances will need 4 while others require 3.
Before installing, check what kind of connection has to be made: is it a receptacle or direct connect? If it is direct wiring, is it inside 50 feet of the electric panel? For receptacles, you can use the plug.
If you are going to use this 220 volt wire size guide, always make sure the power is off at the electric panel. This will prevent shock.