How to Select the Right Grade Wire for an Outdoor Fan

When you install an outdoor fan, you must select the right grade and type of wire to avoid potentially hazardous conditions. Besides short-circuiting your fan and other electrical accents, you may start a fire or damage your ceiling, deck or wall (wherever the wire runs). Pick the right wire form the start to avoid problems down the road.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Wire
• Wiring codes

1. Contact the local building inspector or an electrician to determine the requirements and codes for outdoor wiring. Unless you plan to bury your wire, you probably need Type TW (commercial grade) or THHN cable with a conduit. Some cities require this type of wire for outdoor use.
2. Select an exterior-grade wire with a protective coating. Wires that are UV-treated with a PVC coating usually work in a number of outdoor applications.
3. Determine the current required to run your outdoor fan, so you can choose the proper wire gauge or size. The thinner the wire, the higher the gauge number. Lower gauges mean thicker wires that carry more current over greater distances. For an outdoor ceiling fan, you should select a 16-, 14- or 12-gauge wire in most cases.
4. Check the NEC regulations for residential wiring requirements (see Resources below). Today, 12 gauge is now standard for almost all residential projects. Remember, these are minimum standards.
5. Use TFN or TFFN wire to connect components in your fixture. This is the right internal wire for your outdoor fan, but it is too thin to be used to wire your house or outdoor patio. For instance, this type of wire should be used to connect the motor to the electrical box.
6. Buy more wire than you need to ensure you do not run out and have some handy for repairs. Since commercial-grade wire is not readily available, you may be forced to buy in bulk regardless.

Tips & Warnings

• Use an aluminum, steel or PVC conduit to protect outdoor wiring. Although the wire you choose should be protected from the elements by its protective coating, you should add extra protection with conduits. Some municipalities require this in the building code.
• Check your local laws, because in some areas, only a licensed electrician can make the final hookup for electrical devices on new wiring. In other cities, the electrical work must be inspected before it is operated.

Who Can Help:

• Find Carpentry & Cabinet Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Contractors Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Landscaping Design and Installation Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.