You can oversize electrical wire when it comes to the amperage rating, but not the voltage rating. This is due to the fact that voltage drop is directly proportional to the length of the conductor, while the amperage is not.
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Is a bigger gauge wire better?
A bigger gauge wire is not always better. In fact, using a wire that is too big can be dangerous. The size of the wire is determined by the amount of current that will be flowing through it.
If the wire is too small, it will heat up and could potentially cause a fire. If the wire is too big, it could cause a short circuit.
Can you mix 12g and 14g wire?
It’s not recommended to mix 12g and 14g wire because they have different ampacity ratings. 12g wire is rated for 20 amps and 14g wire is only rated for 15 amps. This means that if you were to use a 14g wire for a circuit that required a 20 amp breaker, the wire would be undersized and could overheat.
Conclusion
If you’re considering upsizing your electrical wire, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, check your local building codes to see what size wire is required for your area. If you’re not sure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go with a larger size.
Second, make sure you have the proper tools to install the larger wire. Third, keep in mind that upsizing your wire will increase your electricity bill, so be sure to factor that into your decision.
