I want to run a 20 AMP outlet about 100 feet from the main breaker. Do you think I'd be ok with a 12 gauge wire at that distance or should I go to 10 gauge?
After reading the manual for the device (dust collector) it recommends at least a dedicated 20 amp circuit. After looking at the Voltage Drop Calculator I get a 6.4% drop at 100 feet. They don't have any other specifications, but for them to recommend at dedicated circuit probably means it takes a lot of juice.
It also says that i can wire it for 230V and the voltage calculator says I'll get a 3.2% drop wiring it for 230V.
I guess I can get away with 12 gauge for a 230V, but in the end I'm probably better off running the 10 gauge.
I must have been extra tired last night when I read your original question because I thought it said 200 feet. Anyway, at 100' and 6.4% drop you must be drawing around 10 amps and 10awg is the correct size to keep the voltage within the proper range. Realize that the actual voltage you have may be a bit lower than 120/240 depending on how far away you are from the poco transformer. Another point is that at start-up, motors draw considerably more than the nameplate rating.
your 'total circuit length' is your hot+neutral combined
most calculators ask for 'one-way' circuit length
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