200 amp service wire copper or aluminum12/5/2023 Service entrance cables should be installed in a conduit to protect them from damage.įor underground service the minimum is a 1.5-inch schedule 40 or 80 PVC conduit.Ī 200-amp panel using three 2/0 AWG, it is recommended to use a 2- or 2.5-inch conduit for easier pulling. It applies if temperature or ampacity adjustment factors are not needed. Read Also > How To Wire Bath Fan & Light On Single Switch? This table is from the 2023 NEC ‘Annex D’ section. Conductivity – lower conductivity than copper.Durability – softer, more susceptible to damage.Corrosion Resistant – Does not require antioxidant coating.Light Weight – lighter than copper but just as durable.Cost Savings – Cost less than copper but more than aluminum.Longevity – may need to be replaced sooner than copper due to corrosion or damage.Special Parts – any connectors, screws, lugs, terminals must be aluminum rated.Susceptible to Heat – any temperature change can cause the wire to expand and contrast creating loose connections which can lead to fire hazards.Corrosive – Requires antioxidant coating on any bare wiring, corrosion can create fire hazards.More Affordable – Lower cost than copper wire.Easier Installation – lightweight and easily installed quickly, larger gauge but still lighter.Higher Price – it is more expensive to install.Heat/Corrosion Resistant – doesn’t expand and contrast in the heat making it more of a durable installation, it does oxidize but that doesn’t affect the performance.Flexible – thinner stands of copper allowing for easier bending.High Conductivity – Can be run longer distances with less voltage drop allowing for smaller gauge.Here are the pros and cons of each type: Type #1: Copper Wire Pros The most common are copper, aluminum, and copper-clad aluminum. The size of your conductors for a 200-amp panel depends on the material of the wire. Read Also > How To Wire A 220 Plug? Pros And Cons Between Copper And Aluminum The third is the neutral wire and will terminate on the neutral/ground bar. Two are the ungrounded or hot conductors, these are typically red or black in color.Įach one carries 120 volts, providing the panel with the ability to power 240 volts. Typically, a cable is used but it is acceptable to pull individual wires. ***above table is in AWG/KCMIL Standard Panels Require 3-Wires From Meterįor a standard home electrical panel there is a total of 3 wires installed from the meter base. It is important to note that you DO NOT use a main bonding jumper if the panel being installed is a subpanel. ![]() This bonds the panel to the neutral/ground bar. There will be a green screw that needs to be installed called the main bonding jumper.
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