How is Wire Gauge Used in U.S. Building Construction?
The minimum safety standard for wire gauge in the United States for lighting circuits is #14 gauge wire. Quality electricians, however, will choose to use #12 gauge wire when they are given the liberty to choose the gauge to install in a new or remodeled home. By using a thicker wire gauge, there is overall less resistance to the electric current and less heat loss experienced. As a result, the structure will experience a steadier power source and minimal light flicker. Another advantage to the thicker wire gauge is that 20-amp fuses may be used while the normal lighting fuses are rated at 15-amps.
