An electrical wire is an essential part of every home. It is what carries the electrical current from the electrical panel to the outlet. Electrical wires come in different sizes, colors, and materials. The most common type of electrical wire is the copper wire.
Copper is a good conductor of electricity and it is also resistant to corrosion. This makes it the most popular choice for electrical wiring. Another type of electrical wire is the aluminum wire. Aluminum is also a good conductor of electricity but it is not as durable as copper.
There are also other types of electrical wires such as the PVC-coated wire, the PVC insulated wire, the THHN wire, and the XHHW wire.
When it comes to choosing the right electrical wire for your home, there are several things that you need to consider. The first thing is the amperage of the wire. The amperage is the amount of electrical current that the wire can carry.
Table of Contents
- Best Electrical Wires
- Southwire 50' 14/2 with ground Romex – Top Pick Electrical Wire
- Southwire 25' 14/2 with Ground Romex Wire - Best Romex Wire
- Southwire Romex Electrical Wire – Best Quality
- Southwire 100' 14/2 with Ground Romex - Best Indoor Wire
- CCA 4 Color Pack in 100 ft Roll - Best Low Voltage
- TYUMEN 40FT 18 Gauge 2pin 2 Color Red Black Cable — Best Quality
- Southwire UF Wire - Best Wiring for Direct Burial
- Sznnzd 20AWG Electric Wire — Best Overall
- 16 Gauge 2 Conductor Electrical Wire – Best Overall
- SOUTHWIRE COMPANY 250' 14/2 W/G NM Cable - Best Electrical Wire
- Buyer Guide:electrical wire
- Frequently Asked Question
Best Electrical Wires
Southwire 50' 14/2 with ground Romex – Top Pick Electrical Wire
color : White
size : 50 ft
Romex SIMpull residential indoor electrical wire type NM-B is primarily used in residential wiring as branch circuits for outlets, switches, and other loads. The Romex SIMpull Cable Jacket is coated for easier pulling, stripping, and installation. This product is UL Listed type NM-B. It is made with 14 gauge, 2 conductor with ground, and 50' per coil.
PROS
-Coated in patented SIMpull Cable Jacket for easier pulling, stripping, and installation -Primarily used in residential wiring as branch circuits for outlets, switches, and other loads -UL Listed type NM-B -14 gauge, 2 conductor with ground, 50' per coil -Made in America
CONS
-None found
Southwire 25' 14/2 with Ground Romex Wire - Best Romex Wire
color : White
size : 25 ft
The Southwire Romex SIMpull NM-B Cable is an electrical wire which is primarily used in residential wiring as branch circuits for outlets, switches, and other loads. It is made of 14 gauge, 2 conductors with ground and is 25 feet long. This Romex cable is coated in patented SIMpull Cable Jacket for easier pulling, stripping, and installation.
PROS
– Patented SIMpull Cable Jacket – Easier pulling, stripping, and installation – Made in America
CONS
None found
Southwire Romex Electrical Wire – Best Quality
color : Yellow
size : 25 ft
Romex SIMpull Type NM-B Cable is primarily used in residential wiring as branch circuits for outlets, switches, and other loads. It can also be used for electrical service to Outbuildings such as Garages and Barns. This cable is made with Soft Drawn Bare Copper Conductors and features a Sunlight Resistant PVC Jacket. The Jacket is also easy to pull, strip, and install. The Romex SIMpull Type NM-B Cable is UL Listed and made in the USA.
PROS
Made in America
UL Listed type NM-B
12 gauge, 2 conductors with ground
CONS
25' per coil
Southwire 100' 14/2 with Ground Romex - Best Indoor Wire
color : White
size : 100 ft
Romex SIMpull NM-B Cable is Southwire's exclusive residential indoor electrical wire. This type of cable is designed for use as branch circuits in homes, apartments and mobile homes. The cable is coated in a patented jacket that makes it easier to pull, strip and install. The Romex SIMpull NM-B Cable is UL Listed and made in America.
PROS
–– Made in America –– UL listed –– 100' per coil –– Easy to install
CONS
–– none
CCA 4 Color Pack in 100 ft Roll - Best Low Voltage
color : Red, Black, Blue, Yellow
size : 4 pack
The 14 Gauge 4 Color Pack in 100 ft Roll (400 Feet Total) Copper Clad Aluminum CCA Low Voltage Primary Wire for Automotive Harness Car Audio Video Wiring. Also in 10 Color Combo is a great product for anyone that needs a lot of low voltage wiring. This product comes with four rolls of 100 feet each and has ten different colors. The product is also UL listed and has a voltage rating of 105 C.
PROS
14 Gauge
4 Color Pack
100 ft Roll
Also in 10 Color Combo
CONS
Do not use for building / household wiring
TYUMEN 40FT 18 Gauge 2pin 2 Color Red Black Cable — Best Quality
color : Black
The Tyumen 40ft 18 Gauge 2pin 2 Color Red Black Cable Hookup Electrical Wire LED Strips Extension Wire 12V/24V DC Cable, 18AWG Flexible Wire Extension Cord for LED Ribbon Lamp Tape Lighting is a great product for all single color LED strip light, low voltage single color led strip, light bulb, lamp. It is widely used for various DC electrical hookups, low voltage cables, 12V DC, 24V DC, low-loss in-home or car stereo installs. If you also need the Power Adapter? Please search "Tyumen Power Adapter 12V 2A [UL Listed]" on Amazon for it.
PROS
-Flexible and easy to work with -Dampness resistant -Can be cut to any length -Great for in-home and automotive applications
CONS
-None
Southwire UF Wire - Best Wiring for Direct Burial
color : Copper
size : 100 ft
Southwire's UF (Underground Feeder) Wire is a direct burial wire that can be used for a variety of applications, including underground feeder to outdoor lighting in apparatus, exposed or concealed wiring in damp, moist, wet, dry, and corrosive locations. The wire is coated in a sunlight resistant jacket that is flame retardant, moisture, and corrosion resistant. The Southwire UF Wire is UL listed and made in America.
PROS
Sunlight resistant
Flame retardant
Moisture resistant
Corrosion resistant
UL listed
100' per coil
CONS
none
Sznnzd 20AWG Electric Wire — Best Overall
color : Red+Black+Yellow+Blue+Green
size : 5 Colors each 19.6Ft
The 20AWG electric wire is a stranded tinned copper wire that is flexible and has a diameter of 1.8mm. It is rated for 300 volts and has a temperature range of -60 to 200 degrees Celsius. The wire is available in 5 colors (red, black, yellow, blue, green) and each color is 6m/19.6ft long.
This electric wire is great for use in lithium batteries, inverters, electric models, electrical appliances, LED lights, stereos, power tools, electric toys, robots, and any other electric or electronic DIY projects.
PROS
5 different colors for easy organization
Made of flexible silicone rubber
Tinned copper for better conductivity
Rated for 300 volts
Length is 6m/19.6ft per color
CONS
More expensive than some other options
Some complaints about the quality of the wire
16 Gauge 2 Conductor Electrical Wire – Best Overall
color : 16AWG
size : 32.8FT
The 16 Gauge 2 Conductor Electrical Wire is made of high quality oxygen-free copper and PVC insulation. The stranded wire design makes it more flexible and easy to use. The maximum voltage is 300V and the rated temperature is 80℃. It is widely used in LED light strips, electronic appliances, transformers and other low voltage applications.
The 16 Gauge 2 Conductor Electrical Wire is UL approved and has passed strict quality testing. We provide 2 years warranty for our products. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
PROS
Made of high quality Oxygen-free copper
PVC insulation material
65 strands of 0.16 copper wire
Flexible and easy to use
Rated operating temperature up to 80℃/176℉
Passed UL harsh testing
CONS
None
SOUTHWIRE COMPANY 250' 14/2 W/G NM Cable - Best Electrical Wire
color : White
size : 250 ft
The Southwire Company 250' 14/2 W/G NM Cable is a great choice for your wiring needs. This product is UL Listed type NM-B and is made in America.
PROS
Easier pulling and stripping
UL Listed
250' per coil
Made in America
CONS
None found
Buyer Guide:electrical wire
How to Choose the Right Electrical Wire
Choosing the right electrical wire for your project can be confusing. With all of the different types and sizes available, it can be tough to know which one is best for your needs. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right wire:
-Start by determining the voltage needed for your project. Not all wires are rated for high voltage applications.
-Choose a wire that is rated for the amount of current that will be flowing through it. A wire that is too small will overheat and may cause a fire.
-Be sure to check the width of the wire. Some wires are very thin and may not be suitable for certain applications.
-Consider the environment where the wire will be used. If it will be in a wet or damp area, you'll need to choose a type of wire that is resistant to corrosion.
Once you've considered these factors, you should be able to choose the right electrical wire for your project.
The Best Time to Buy Electrical Wire
The best time to buy electrical wire is when you need it. You may find sales or discounts at other times, but if you wait for the right time, you'll save both money and aggravation.
When planning a major construction project, always factor in the cost of electrical wire. The cost of copper has been rising in recent years, and this will certainly affect your budget. Buying at the right time can help offset some of these costs.
How do you know when the best time to buy electrical wire is? It depends on your needs. Here are some tips to help you decide:
-Plan ahead. Electrical wire is not always in stock, so give yourself plenty of time to purchase what you need.
-Watch for sales. Many stores offer discounts or special deals on electrical wire around holidays like Christmas or Easter.
-Buy in bulk. If you have a large project, ask the store about buying a larger quantity of wire at a discounted price.
-Know your specs. Not all types of electrical wire are created equal. Make sure you understand the gauge and insulation requirements for your project before making a purchase.
Tips for Buying Electrical Wire
When you’re in the market for electrical wire, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you choose the right wire for your needs:
- Gauge
The gauge of an electrical wire refers to its diameter. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the wire. Wire is typically available in gauges 18, 16, 14, 12, 10 and 8. Most household wiring is done with 14-gauge or 12-gauge wire.
- Current Capacity
Another factor to consider when buying electrical wire is its current capacity. This measures how much current a wire can safely carry. You’ll want to make sure the wire you select has a current capacity that meets your needs.
- Temperature Rating
The temperature rating of a wire refers to how hot it can get before it begins to melt. You’ll want to make sure the wire you select has a temperature rating that meets your needs. If you have any questions about choosing the right electrical wire, contact an electrician for assistance.
How to Save Money When Buying Electrical Wire
Electrical wire and cable are necessary for installing or repairing electrical systems in homes, offices and other buildings. The price of electrical wire and cable can vary significantly from one retailer to another, so it’s important to shop around to get the best prices.
Here are some tips for saving money when buying electrical wire and cable:
- Compare prices online
There are many online retailers that sell electrical wire and cable, so it’s a good idea to compare prices before making a purchase. Some of the better-known retailers include Amazon, Home Depot and Lowe’s.
- Look for sales and discounts
Many retailers offer discounts on electrical wire and cable during certain times of the year, such as before Father’s Day or around the Christmas holidays. Be sure to check the websites of your favorite stores regularly for special offers.
- Contact wholesalers
Wholesalers often sell electrical wire and cable at lower prices than retailers. You can find a list of wholesalers in your area by doing a Google search or by contacting your local electrician or contractor association.
- Compare prices at local stores
Not all stores sell electrical wire and cable at the same price. Check out the prices at local hardware stores, home improvement stores and electrical supply stores to see who has the best deal.
- Ask friends and family members for referrals
If you know someone who has recently installed or repaired an electrical system, ask them where they bought their wire and cable from. Chances are they got a good deal on their supplies and they may be able to recommend a reputable retailer.
Frequently Asked Question
How is electrical wire made?
Electrical wires are made through a process of drawing copper wire from a continuous copper rod, which is then formed into strands. The strands are then twisted together to create the wire.
The manufacturing process begins by pulling a long, thick copper rod from a furnace. The rod is then cut into small pieces that will become the wire.
The small pieces of copper are then heated and turned into thin wires. These wires are drawn through several holes in a series of metal plates until they reach the desired thickness.
After the wires are drawn to the correct thickness, they are twisted together to form one strand. This strand is then wound around a spool to create electrical cable or wire.
What are the different types of electrical wire?
There are different types of wire for different applications. The most common are copper, aluminum, and steel.
Copper wire is often used in electrical wiring and is a good conductor of electricity. It is also relatively resistant to corrosion. Aluminum wire is also a good conductor of electricity, but it corrodes more quickly than copper. Steel wire is not as good a conductor of electricity as copper or aluminum, but it is more resistant to corrosion.
How do you choose the right type of electrical wire?
When you’re wiring a new home or remodeling an existing one, it’s important to choose the right type of electrical wire. Different wiring types have different capabilities and are suited for different applications. The three most common types of wire are copper, aluminum, and fiber-optic.
Copper is the traditional type of electrical wire. It’s durable, reliable, and relatively affordable. It’s also a good choice for wiring high-demand areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Aluminum is a newer type of wire that has been gaining in popularity in recent years. It’s lighter and more conductive than copper, making it a good choice for wiring large areas. However, it can be more expensive than copper and it may not be as reliable over long periods of time.
Fiber-optic wire is the latest type of electrical wire on the market. It’s made up of fine glass or plastic fibers that transmit data through pulses of light. It’s not as commonly used as copper or aluminum, but it has some advantages over traditional wires. For example, it’s less susceptible to interference from electromagnetic fields and it can carry a lot of data at once.
When choosing an electrical wire, you need to consider your needs and budget. Copper is a tried-and-true option that will serve you well in most applications, but aluminum and fiber-optic wires have their own unique benefits that may make them a better fit for your specific project.
How do you install electrical wire?
Installing electrical wire is a critical job that should only be done by a professional. There are a few things you need to do before beginning the installation:
-
Make sure the power is turned off to the area where you're working.
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Plan your route for the wire. You'll want to avoid running it over or near sharp objects, and it's best to keep it away from water sources.
-
Cut the wire to the correct length and strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from each end.
-
Twist each end of the wire around a screwdriver to create a loop, then twist each loop in opposite directions. This will help keep the wire from coming loose over time.
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Insert screws into the wall where you want to install the outlets or light fixtures, then hang the wire on top of the screws. Tighten the screws until they hold the wire in place.
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Connect one end of the wire to an outlet or light fixture, then repeat on the other end. If needed, use pliers to crimp connectors onto the wire to make a secure connection.Test your work by plugging in an appliance or turning on a light switch.
What are some common mistakes people make when installing electrical wire?
- Failing to understand the purpose of each type of wire.
There are a variety of types of electrical wire, each with a different purpose. People often make the mistake of using the wrong type of wire for a given application, which can lead to safety hazards and problems with the electrical system.
For example, THHN wire is used for general wiring purposes in homes and businesses, while NM cable is used for running power lines between buildings. If someone tries to use THHN wire in an application where NM cable is required, they may experience problems with the wiring system.
- Failing to check the gauge of the wire.
The gauge of the wire is another important factor to consider when installing electrical wire. The gauge indicates the thickness of the wire, and it is important to use the correct gauge for each application.
If someone uses too thin or too thick a gauge of wire for an application, it can cause problems with the electrical system. For example, if someone uses too thin a gauge of wire, it may not be able to handle the amount of current flowing through it, which can lead to short circuits or fires.
- Not following proper wiring procedures.
Another common mistake people make when installing electrical wire is not following proper wiring procedures. This can include things like failing to use proper insulation techniques or not securing wires properly.
Not following proper wiring procedures can lead to safety hazards and problems with the electrical system. It is important to read and follow all wiring instructions carefully when installing electrical wire.