What Gauge of Power Cord for 15 Amps?
Electric current generates heat within a cord. Too much current generates too much heat, and the cord insulation may break down. Using the right cord ensures that your appliances work safely and reduces the risk of fire and electric shock. Does this Spark an idea?
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What Is Wire Gauge
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The American Wire Gauge of a non-ferrous wire refers to its diameter and cross-sectional area. Commonly used AWG values range from zero to 36. The diameter of a wire determines its ability to carry electrical current, so a fixed relationship exists between AWG and the maximum current a wire can safely carry. The wider the wire, the more current it can carry.
Why Does It Matter
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The relationship between cross-sectional area and current is all about electrical resistance. Every wire resists the passage of current, and overcoming the resistance generates heat. The larger the cross-sectional area of the wire, the less resistance the current encounters and the less heat it generates.
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What Gauge To Use
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The gauge you need is the AWG value that does not produce too much heat. That sounds easy, but unfortunately a single wire can dissipate heat more quickly than can a bundle of wires, or a wire hidden inside an insulated wall cavity. Consequently, the appropriate AWG can vary according to the type of cord and where you use it.The National Electrical Code recommends using using 14 AWG for a 15 amp load in a three wire insulated cord, but an extension cord rated at 15 amps may use 10 or 12 AWG wire to allow a greater safety margin.
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References
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