What size 220V Wiring?

**Bdub** · 06-17-2010, 09:56 AM

Ok guys, I need some help with wire size. I'm running a new 220V wire from my basement to the garage for my LC-520D. Reading many of the threads, it looks like 220 is the way to go. I have a good piece of 10g, but I'm wondering if I really need 8g. My run is approximately 35 feet. Also, what size breaker should I use? Thanks in advance.

**Gadget** · 06-17-2010, 10:51 AM

10 should work, it is rated to 30 amps.

**KHK** · 06-17-2010, 08:35 PM

#10 wire and a 30 amp breaker.

**Bdub** · 06-18-2010, 12:34 PM

Thanks Guys........I really appreciate your expertise.

**Bdub** · 07-11-2010, 09:16 AM

Got my wiring done. Made a couple of simple cuts with my Plasma Cutter. All is well.

**Gadget** · 07-11-2010, 10:38 AM

Cool, be sure to show some of your work.

tomsign · 07-11-2010, 11:04 AM

Bdub, glad to hear you are all up and running. would like to see some of your work
Tomsign

**Firefightaz** · 11-23-2010, 01:08 PM

I just had an electrician come out to install a 220. He refused to wire with anything but 8 gauge. Im sure gadget Knows what he is talking about. #10 will work.

**Gadget** · 11-23-2010, 02:07 PM

Here is a link to a wire size calculator that is within code. Pretty slick calculator.

Wire Size Calculator

**Arcamm** · 11-24-2010, 06:43 PM

There are a lot of things that effect the size you should use, like the length and load type. A given wire size has a rating and 10 will carry 30 amps. If your run gets too long, you need to go up a size. It's OK to go too big, but not too small. You have to match the breaker to the wire size. You can use a 30amp or less on 10 wire, but not anything larger.

If your electician would only use 8, either it was a long run, he figured it would pull more than 30 amps on startup or he a bunch of 8 on his truck he needed to use up.