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Single dedicated line query

Still humming a hawing regarding utilization of a main-connected subpanel with multiple dedicated lines extending to outlets vs a single line from the main with 'pigtailed' outlets. Seem to be a pretty even split with some heavyweight opinions from both camps.

If I decided on a single line, for a 70 ft run from the main, I suspect at least 8 ga (6 ga?)wire should be used. If that is the case, is it practical (or possible) to direct that 8 ga on to the outlets? If not, what is the best method of stepping down to a smaller (say, 10 ga) size line?

A qualified electrician will be doing the work, and in fact once he began hearing of the idea of dedicated lines, asked me about this very issue. I just want to have a better grasp on what is best for my situation.

thanks
terra3
dobieguy
20 posts
 
Your electrician will tell you that the correct wire size is 12ga. with a 20 amp circuit breaker.
It's not possible to expect to get 6 or 8ga. wire into a wall outlet box and then hook an outlet to it.
What you "suspect" should be used is one thing,the electrical code says what is the correct thing to use.
Also every time splices are made,wire sizes changed and pigtails used you are defeating the idea of a dedicated line. A saying in the trade says it all:
WIRING IS NOT A HOBBY. GET A PRO!

drummermitchell's avatar
drummermitchell
262 posts
 
I went2X40a breakers+7AWG from my main panel to the livingroom and their put a SUBPANEL(with 8X15a breakers.Wiring in the subpanel is 10AWG+ wire to the receptacles is 10AWG.so that gave me 16 outlets.Electricians don't like 10AWG as it is hard to work with.
I don't want to restrict power to my amps so if 10AWG is probably better then I'll do it,I definately want to be sure were not starved for power as alot of audio folks +pros go the 10AWG route and some do the 12AWG.My mind is at ease knowing from the panel to my gear I have no power issues.Of course with a couple of Torus(s)up front I get more power in reserve than the wall can give me,but that's another story.
jea48
4,446 posts
 
Your electrician will tell you that the correct wire size is 12ga. with a 20 amp circuit breaker.
02-03-10: Dobieguy
#12 awg is the bare minimum size wire per NEC for a 20 amp branch circuit.

It's not possible to expect to get 6 or 8ga. wire into a wall outlet box and then hook an outlet to it.
02-03-10: Dobieguy
Most 20 amp branch circuit breakers made in recent years will accept a max wire size of #8 awg. Receptacles, usually #10 awg copper max.

What you "suspect" should be used is one thing,the electrical code says what is the correct thing to use.
02-03-10: Dobieguy
NEC code is a bare minimum electrical safety code......

Article 90
Introduction

90.1 Purpose.

(A) Practical Safeguarding. The purpose of this code is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity.

(B) Adequacy. This code contains provisions that are considered necessary for safety. Compliance therewith and proper maintenance results in an installation that essentially free from hazard but not necessarily efficient, convenient, or adequate for good service or future expansion of electrical use.

(C) Intention. This code is not intended as a design specification or an instruction manual for untrained persons.

NEC 2008
NFPA 70
.
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