![]() It’s more cost-effective, lightweight, and flexible than copper, which makes it a widely appealing choice. However, this isn’t a requirement for copper-clad aluminum wiring at the connection terminals.ĭespite copper being recognized as a better conductor, aluminum wiring is quite popular. One key factor to consider with aluminum wiring is requiring an antioxidant coating at the connection terminals to fend off corrosion. Aluminum wiring requires a larger diameter wire since its conductivity is lower than copper’s. You’ll need a #4/0 AWG 200 amp wire size if you’re considering aluminum or copper-clad aluminum wiring. Copper has excellent conductivity, is resistant to rust, and doesn’t oxidize, adding to its appeal. This type of wire is a popular choice for electrical wiring, mainly due to its superior heat resistance compared to aluminum wires. You will require a #2/0 AWG copper wire if you’re going the copper conductor route. Many electrical contractors opt for #4/0 aluminum or copper-clad wire when dealing with a 200 amp wire size. Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: What size wire do I buy for my electrical service panel? The NEC answers… () Service or Feeder Rating Copper Wire Aluminum orĬopper-Clad Aluminum Wire Minimum Conduit Size 100 Amps #4 AWG #2 AWG 1.25 inch 110 Amps #3 AWG #1 AWG 1.25 inch 125 Amps #2 AWG #1/0 AWG 1.25 inch 150 Amps #1 AWG #2/0 AWG 1.25 inch 175 Amps #1/0 AWG #3/0 AWG 1.5 inch 200 Amps #2/0 AWG #4/0 AWG 1.5 inch 225 Amps #3/0 AWG 250 kcmil 1.5 inch 250 Amps #4/0 AWG 300 kcmil 2 inch 300 Amps 250 kcmil 350 kcmil 2.5 inch 350 Amps 350 kcmil 500 kcmil 3 inch 400 Amps 400 kcmil 600 kcmil 3 inch Source: National Electrical Code Wire Size Choices for 200 Amp Service: Copper or Aluminum? Power is transferred from the utility service entrance conductors and moves through the outdoor electrical meter base into the main electrical panel in an attached garage, basement, or interior room. Moreover, the installation must be done by a qualified electrician who adheres to local electric codes. When wiring a 200-amp service, you’ll need an electrical permit. By understanding the electrical codes, you can ensure that you select the most appropriate wire size for your 200 amp service. Remember, your 200 amp wire must be capable of handling the system’s high current demands while also meeting safety standards. But when it comes to underground 200 amp services, they typically go for a 250 KCMIL aluminum wire with a 255A ampacity, fulfilling the 250A minimum requirement. High copper costs have prompted licensed electricians to opt for 4/0 AWG aluminum wire over short distances. However, you could choose a larger 2 or 2.5 inches conduit if you’re running three wires in the same conduit. ![]() You should use at least a 1.5-inch schedule 40 or 80 PVC conduit if you plan on running a 200 amp wire underground. The wire size should be 500 kcmil for copper or 1000 kcmil for aluminum if you’re installing a 200 amp wire over 200 feet. The NEC suggests increasing the wire size by 20% per 100 ft length from the circuit breaker panels if you need to install a 200 amp feeder wire over longer distances. Selecting the correct wire size for your 200 amp service wire installation cannot be overstated.īased on the NEC Table 310.12, the recommended wire size for a 200 amp service is either a #2/0 AWG copper or #4/0 AWG for aluminum for distances up to 50 feet. When undertaking a new electrical service installation in a residential property, you must choose a 200 amp wire size. ![]()
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