{"id":58564,"date":"2022-05-25T18:34:27","date_gmt":"2022-05-25T16:34:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gahzly.com\/?p=58564"},"modified":"2022-05-25T18:34:27","modified_gmt":"2022-05-25T16:34:27","slug":"electrical-cable-a-must-basics-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/\u0645\u0642\u0627\u0644\/electrical-cable-a-must-basics-you-need-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Electrical Cable basics You must Know ! 3"},"content":{"rendered":"<section class=\"content pure-g\">\n<section class=\" pure-u-1 pure-u-lg-14-24\">\n<div class=\"contentbarheader\">\n<h2 class=\"entry-title\">Electrical Cable basics You must Know<\/h2>\n<div class=\"byline-row-wraper\">\n<div class=\"byline-wraper\">\n<div class=\"byline\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"dek\">\n<h2>Before you take on your next home wiring project, arm yourself with basic information about the electrical cable and wiring that you\u2019re likely to see.<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"card-number\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-187008 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_021.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"wire electrical cable basics\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;Family Handyman&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>Electrical Cable Types: The Basics<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">The wire and cable aisle at your home center can be a pretty confusing place. We\u2019ll teach you\u00a0how to identify different electrical cable types\u00a0and their uses, and how to determine the size of individual wires and their purposes. You\u2019ll be able to cut through the confusion, get exactly what you need and ensure that your wiring is safe.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Even if you have years of wiring experience, there are always a few tricks you may not know. We worked with two master electricians to gather these\u00a0tips for easier home electrical wiring.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"card-number\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-181238 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH17MAR_576_06_406.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"wire cutters\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;Family Handyman&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>Cable vs. Wire<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">People often use these terms interchangeably, but there\u2019s a difference:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Cable is an assembly of two or more wires in a single jacket.<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Wires are the individual insulated or bare conductors inside the jacket.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"pure-u-1 pure-u-lg-8-24 sidebar\">\n<div class=\"cm-ad-unit-section\">\n<div class=\"ad-container-wrapper\">\n<div id=\"ad6278f4044a22d\" class=\"ad no-ad-text ad-text\" data-ad-slot-name=\"\/listicle\/cm_right_rail\" data-ad-sizes=\"\" data-ad-responsive-sizes=\"{&quot;mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;desktop&quot;:[[300,600]],&quot;large_screen&quot;:[[300,600]]}\" data-ad-targeting=\"{&quot;&quot;:&quot;&quot;}\">\n<div id=\"aax_ad6278f4044a22d\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"content pure-g\">\n<section class=\"social-menu-desktop pure-u-lg-2-24\"><\/section>\n<section class=\" pure-u-1 pure-u-lg-14-24\">\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"card-number\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-179728 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/068_FHM_JULAUG18.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"wire sizes gauge\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>Wire Gauge<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">Wires come in different sizes\/gauges to work with the amperage of the circuit in which they\u2019re used. It\u2019s counterintuitive, but the larger the number, the smaller the wire.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The most common sizes you\u2019ll find in residential work are\u00a014-gauge\u00a0and\u00a012-gauge. Larger appliances such as electric stoves, electric water heaters, electric dryers and central air units will often use 10-, 8- or even 6-gauge wire.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\">I<\/span>f you\u2019re\u00a0adding an outlet, you need to use wire the same gauge as the existing wiring. How do you tell your old wiring gauge?\u00a0Here\u2019s a simple visual.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"card-number\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-187014 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_003.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"cable by the numbers\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;Family Handyman&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>Cable by the Numbers<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">An electrical cable is classified by two numbers separated by a hyphen, such as 14-2. The first number denotes the conductor\u2019s gauge; the second denotes the number of conductors inside the cable.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">For instance, 14-2 has two 14-gauge conductors: a\u00a0hot and a neutral. This cable also contains a bare copper wire as the ground. Individual conductors are also color-coded, which tells you their\u00a0purpose in the circuit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"card-number\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-187017 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"cables outer sheath color coding\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>Outer Sheath Color Coding<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">The color of a cable\u2019s outer sheath tells you the gauge of the wire inside the sheath as well as the amperage rating for the circuit.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>WHITE<\/strong>\u00a0= 14-gauge wire, 15-amp circuit<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>YELLOW<\/strong>\u00a0= 12-gauge wire, 20-amp circuit<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>ORANGE<\/strong>\u00a0= 10-gauge wire, 30-amp circuit<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>BLACK<\/strong>\u00a0= 8- or 6-gauge wire, 45- or 60-amp circuits. Check sheath labeling for gauge and circuit specifics.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>GRAY<\/strong>\u00a0= Underground cable. Since all UF (underground feeder) cable is gray, check the sheath labeling for gauge and circuit specifics.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"pure-u-1 pure-u-lg-8-24 sidebar\">\n<div class=\"sticky-ad-container\">\n<div class=\"stickied-ad\">\n<div id=\"ad6278f4044a5a7\" class=\"ad ad-text\" data-ad-slot-name=\"\/listicle\/rail_2\" data-ad-responsive-sizes=\"{&quot;large_screen&quot;:[[300,600],[300,250],[160,600]]}\" data-ad-targeting=\"{&quot;tf&quot;:&quot;atf&quot;,&quot;pos&quot;:&quot;rail_2&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot;rail&quot;}\">\n<div id=\"aax_ad6278f4044a5a7\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"content pure-g\">\n<section class=\"social-menu-desktop pure-u-lg-2-24\"><\/section>\n<section class=\" pure-u-1 pure-u-lg-14-24\">\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"card-number\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-133369 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/shutterstock_55922917-1.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"Cords, Chargers and Cables\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;Shutterstock&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;April Cat\\\/Shutterstock&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\"> \/ <\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<h2>Not All Cable Is Color-Coded<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">Cable-sheath color coding started in 2001 and is still voluntary. If you have\u00a0older wiring,\u00a0don\u2019t assume it complies with the current color coding. However, most manufacturers now follow the standard color code.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Wiring problems and mistakes are all too common, and if left uncorrected have the potential to\u00a0cause short circuits, shocks and even fires.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"card-number\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-187031 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?fit=700,699\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?resize=1024,1022 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?resize=768,767 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/068_FHM_SEP18-1.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"wire color coding\" width=\"700\" height=\"699\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>Wire Color Coding<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">This code is standard for all conductors. The colors you\u2019re most likely to find in your home are the following:<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>BLACK (OR RED) = HOT.<\/strong>\u00a0Hot wires carry current from the panel to the device, which could be a switch, receptacle, light fixture or appliance. There are other colors for hot wires, but they\u2019re much less common.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>WHITE = NEUTRAL.<\/strong>\u00a0Neutral wires carry the current back to the panel, completing the circuit.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>BARE (OR GREEN) = GROUND.<\/strong>\u00a0In the event of a ground fault, the ground wire provides a path for the fault current to return to the panel, opening the breaker or blowing the fuse and cutting off the flow of electricity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"listicle_nativo1\" data-nativo-placement-id=\"1119572\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-187032 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"nonmetallic cable\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>NM-B \u2013 Nonmetallic Cable<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">This is the\u00a0most common type of electrical cable\u00a0in homes built since the mid-\u201960s. \u201cNonmetallic\u201d simply means that the outer jacket is not metal. It\u2019s often referred to as Romex, which is a brand name. Typically, NM-B cable has either two conductors and a ground, or three conductors and a ground. The conductors are individually insulated, wrapped in paper and sheathed in plastic.\u00a0Ground wires\u00a0are either bare copper or insulated in green.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>14-2<\/strong>\u00a0Used for general lighting and receptacle circuits. 15-amp circuit maximum.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>14-3<\/strong>\u00a0Used for three-way switches and split receptacle circuits. 15-amp circuit maximum.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>12-2<\/strong>\u00a0Used for 20-amp kitchen, bathroom, laundry and garage receptacles; 230-volt heating circuits up to 3,700 watts; and 115-volt circuits up to 1,800 watts. Can be used anywhere in place of 14-2.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>12-3<\/strong> Same uses as 12-2, with the addition of three-way switches and split receptacle circuits.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"content pure-g\">\n<section class=\" pure-u-1 pure-u-lg-14-24\">\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"card-number\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-187039 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_006.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"underground feeder cable\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;Family Handyman&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>UF \u2013 Underground Feeder Cable<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">UF is used primarily to\u00a0bring power to detached garages, outbuildings or outdoor lighting. The insulated conductors are molded into the sheathing. Depending on the situation, UF is either direct-buried or run in conduit. It must be protected from physical damage by conduit where it exits the ground and is exposed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-187041 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?resize=768,768 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/FH18SEP_589_52_011.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"metal-clad cable\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;Family Handyman&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>MC \u2013 Metal-Clad Cable<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">MC cable is common in\u00a0unfinished areas\u00a0where the cable would otherwise be exposed and subject to physical damage. It\u2019s also sometimes used inside walls. A bare aluminum wire is in continuous contact with the metal sheathing. The combination of aluminum wire, sheathing and metal boxes grounds the circuit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"listicle-card\" data-comscore-tracked=\"true\">\n<div class=\"listicle-card-image-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-187042 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?fit=700,700\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?resize=1024,1024 1024w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?resize=768,767 768w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?resize=522,522 522w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?resize=185,185 185w, https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/069_FHM_SEP18-2.jpg?resize=295,295 295w\" alt=\"stranded wire vs solid wire\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-image-analytics=\"{&quot;licensorName&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;,&quot;credits&quot;:&quot;not available&quot;}\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" data-ll-status=\"loaded\" title=\"l\"><\/div>\n<h2>Stranded Wire vs. Solid<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">Stranded wire is more flexible than solid. If you\u2019re pulling wire through\u00a0conduit, stranded wire makes it easier to get around corners and bends in the conduit. However, if the situation requires\u00a0pushing wires through conduit, you\u2019ll want to use solid wire.<\/p>\n<h2>electrical cable and wiring<\/h2>\n<h4><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-50674 aligncenter\" title=\"electric fuse electric fuse\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gahzly.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/editor-1s-188px-15.gif\" alt=\"electric fuse\" width=\"188\" height=\"188\" \/><\/h4>\n<h4><span id=\"electric_fuse\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><span id=\"electric_fuse\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><span id=\"electric_fuse\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><span id=\"electric_fuse-4\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gahzly.com\/?product_cat=%D9%81%D9%8A%D9%88%D8%B2%D8%A7%D8%AA\">electric fuse<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><span id=\"We_are_pleased_to_have_you_visit_our_pages_on_social_networking_sites\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><span id=\"We_are_pleased_to_have_you_visit_our_pages_on_social_networking_sites\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><span id=\"We_are_pleased_to_have_you_visit_our_pages_on_social_networking_sites\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><span id=\"We_are_pleased_to_have_you_visit_our_pages_on_social_networking_sites_where_we_publish_exclusive_offers_on_our_website\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span>We are pleased to have you visit our pages on social networking sites,<\/h4>\n<h4><span id=\"where_we_publish_exclusive_offers_on_our_website\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><span id=\"where_we_publish_exclusive_offers_on_our_website\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span><span id=\"where_we_publish_exclusive_offers_on_our_website\" class=\"ez-toc-section\"><\/span>where we publish exclusive offers on our website.<\/h4>\n<p>Our Facebook page\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Gahzlystore\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>\u00a0.<\/p>\n<p>Our Twitter account is\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/gahzly1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>\u00a0.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Electrical Cable basics You must Know Before you take on your next home wiring project, arm yourself with basic information about the electrical cable and wiring that you\u2019re likely to see. Electrical Cable Types: The Basics The wire and cable aisle at your home center can be a pretty confusing place. We\u2019ll teach you\u00a0how to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":53044,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7375],"tags":[7768,9830,7767,8172,9452,9454,9451],"class_list":["post-58564","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles","tag-articles-en","tag-basics","tag-cable","tag-electrical-en","tag-know","tag-must","tag-you"],"featured_image_src":{"landsacpe":["https:\/\/gahzly.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/33.-THHN-WIRE-1024x445.png",1024,445,true],"list":["https:\/\/gahzly.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/33.-THHN-WIRE-463x348.png",463,348,true],"medium":["https:\/\/gahzly.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/33.-THHN-WIRE-300x300.png",300,300,true],"full":["https:\/\/gahzly.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/33.-THHN-WIRE.png",1024,1024,false]},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/33.-THHN-WIRE.png","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/58564","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=58564"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/58564\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/53044"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=58564"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=58564"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gahzly.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=58564"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}