Any advice on the benefit of solid versus stranded wire or if each has a specific application. I will be replacing some of the wiring in my home but I am not sure which type of wire to use. I do know that stranded wire is more supple than solid. Presumably this would make it easier to pull through conduit?
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You need, at minimum, 14 guage wire and preferably 12 guage. This needs to be rated 90 degrees C. I've never seen stranded wire that meets these criteria.
Thats for normal outlets and lights.
For 220 applications, call in an electrician.
[This message has been edited by BobF (edited August 12, 2002).]
As far as I know, no real difference between solid and stranded for electrical. Stranded is typically used for conduits since it's more flexible and therefore easier to pull through. Both stranded and solid are available w/ 90C ratings.
14 gauge is only good up to 15amps. 12 gauge is good up to 20amps. That's of course w/o the derating calculations for long runs and conduits.
Check the electrical forum for a better answer.
