What Type of Electrical Wiring Should Be Used for an Outlet?
To determine the right wire for a particular outlet, three key pieces of information are necessary: applicable electrical codes, outlet type and load. Electrical codes dictate minimum standards required for all outlet types and serve as a guide for selecting the right wire and outlet for a particular location. Once the outlet type is selected, the choice in wiring may be predetermined, as with large appliances and 240-volt outlets. If not predetermined, the anticipated load on the circuit to which an outlet is added, combined with outlet type will dictate required wire gauge.