A #3 copper conductor with an insulation factor of 75 and 90 degrees C is rated at 100 and 105 respectively. Even though the wire is rated at this amperage it can only be loaded to 80% capacity to conform with the electrical code requirements. To calculate if a 100 amp sub panel will be large enough, the connected load that you are going to connect to should be considered. If the total connected load is not over 80 and 84 amps respectively the #3 wire will pass inspection. Also check to see if the sub-panel that you are going to install is rated for 100% or 80% load rated.
A #2 copper conductor with an insulation factor of 75 and 90 degrees C
is rated at 115 and 120 amps respectively. The 80% de-rate still has to be applied. 115 x .8 = 92, 120 x .8 = 96.
A #1 copper conductor with an insulation factor of 75 and 90 degrees C
is rated at 130 and 140 amps respectively. The 80% de-rate still has to be applied. 130 x .8 = 104, 140 x .8 = 112.
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Warning
100A is a lot of current. It can easily overheat any bad connection. (I have a power supply that will put out 100A. I've melted screws and ignited pennies with it.) You need to consult code for a project this large. You must consult a wire size table and calculate the correct size cable for the run length. You cannot just stumble through it on your own. A mistake will start a fire.
Call en electrician and get an estimate. Go to the library and read about this, please. Negligence is fatal with electricity.
AnswerIf you have to ask, go with copper. Aluminimum is cheaper, but special precautions must be taken and special wiring devices must be used to be safe. You cannot use aluminimum like you would copper!For copper, you need at least #2 wire for a run under 50ft.
The recommended wire size for a 100A subpanel installation is typically 3 AWG copper or 1 AWG aluminum.
To properly ground a subpanel, you need to connect the grounding wire from the subpanel to a grounding rod driven into the ground near the subpanel. This helps to prevent electrical shocks and ensures the safe operation of the subpanel.
To wire a subpanel correctly, you need to connect the hot wires, neutral wire, and ground wire from the main panel to the corresponding terminals in the subpanel. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and local electrical codes to ensure proper installation and safety.
The recommended wire size for a 50 amp subpanel installation is typically 6-gauge copper wire.
For a 100 amp subpanel installation, it is recommended to use a 3-gauge wire.
The recommended wire size for a subpanel installation is typically determined by the amperage of the subpanel. It is important to consult the National Electrical Code (NEC) or a qualified electrician to ensure the correct wire size is used for the specific installation.
To properly ground a subpanel in a detached building, you need to install a grounding rod or rods outside the building and connect them to the subpanel with a grounding wire. This helps to prevent electrical shocks and ensures the safety of the electrical system in the building.
For a 100A subpanel, a minimum of 1.5-inch Schedule 80 PVC conduit or 1.25-inch rigid metal conduit is recommended. As for the aluminum wire, for a 100A feeder, you would typically use 1/0 AWG aluminum wire for a 3-wire setup or 2/0 AWG aluminum wire for a 4-wire setup. Always consult local electrical codes and a licensed electrician for precise specifications for your installation.
To add a subpanel to your electrical system, you will need to first determine the appropriate location for the subpanel and ensure it is properly grounded. Next, you will need to run a new circuit from the main panel to the subpanel, making sure to use the correct wire size and type. Finally, you will need to connect the wires to the breakers in the main panel and the subpanel, following all local electrical codes and regulations. It is recommended to consult a licensed electrician for this task to ensure it is done safely and correctly.
The recommended wire size for a 100A service is typically 2 AWG copper or 1/0 AWG aluminum.
The recommended wire size for a 100A electrical circuit is typically 3 AWG copper or 1 AWG aluminum.
#6 wire is needed. If placing the subpanel in a garage at a good distance, it is recommended to also install a seperate ground rod .