#GROUNDING WIRE SIZE FOR 100 AMP SERVICE HOW TO#
#GROUNDING WIRE SIZE FOR 100 AMP SERVICE INSTALL#
#GROUNDING WIRE SIZE FOR 100 AMP SERVICE CODE#

Cost Savings – Cost less than copper but more than aluminum.Longevity – may need to be replaced sooner than copper due to corrosion or damage.Special Parts – any connectors, screws, lugs, terminals must be aluminum rated.Susceptible to Heat – any temperature change can cause the wire to expand and contrast creating loose connections which can lead to fire hazards.Corrosive – Requires antioxidant coating on any bare wiring, corrosion can create fire hazards.More Affordable – Lower cost than copper wire.Easier Installation – lightweight and easily installed quickly, larger gauge but still lighter.

#GROUNDING WIRE SIZE FOR 100 AMP SERVICE INSTALL#

Higher Price – it is more expensive to install.

Heat/Corrosion Resistant – doesn’t expand and contrast in the heat making it more of a durable installation, it does oxidize but that doesn’t affect the performance.

Flexible – thinner stands of copper allowing for easier bending.

High Conductivity – Can be run longer distances with less voltage drop allowing for smaller gauge.

Here are the pros and cons of each type: Type #1: Copper Wire Pros The most common are copper, aluminum, and copper-clad aluminum. The size of your conductors for a 200-amp panel depends on the material of the wire.

#GROUNDING WIRE SIZE FOR 100 AMP SERVICE HOW TO#

Read Also > How To Wire A 220 Plug? Pros And Cons Between Copper And Aluminum The third is the neutral wire and will terminate on the neutral/ground bar. Two are the ungrounded or hot conductors, these are typically red or black in color.Įach one carries 120 volts, providing the panel with the ability to power 240 volts. Typically, a cable is used but it is acceptable to pull individual wires. ***above table is in AWG/KCMIL Standard Panels Require 3-Wires From Meterįor a standard home electrical panel there is a total of 3 wires installed from the meter base. It is important to note that you DO NOT use a main bonding jumper if the panel being installed is a subpanel. This bonds the panel to the neutral/ground bar. There will be a green screw that needs to be installed called the main bonding jumper. Conduit Type, Voltage Drop, and 3-phase PowerĪ 200-amp service must have a #4 AWG copper wire or a #2 AWG aluminum wire running from the grounding electrode system to the main power panel.Pros And Cons Between Copper And Aluminum.Standard Panels Require 3-Wires From Meter.***above table is in AWG/KCMIL What else is in this 200-amp wire size guide? We also encourage you to read our guide on wire sizing for breakers (15 to 50 amps). As an electrician, I can’t express how important it is to have the proper size wire and the proper grounding for performance and safety!Ĭheck out our table below on the proper wire size for 200-amps (and other amperages) and keep reading for more information. They also know all the national and local electrical codes that need to be followed and permits that need to be obtained. However, a licensed electrician should be the one to size the service cable due to a variety of factors that needs to be considered.

#GROUNDING WIRE SIZE FOR 100 AMP SERVICE CODE#

The National Electrical Code requires a minimum of 2/0 AWG for copper wire and 4/0 aluminum wire or copper-clad wire when installing a 200-amp panel.

Grounding wire size for 100 amp service