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· Licensed Electrical Cont.
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Depending on the load I'd say #10. #12 will work if the only load is some lighting.
 
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It depends if you're running a new run from the main box or tapping off an existing circuit at some kind of junction. If it's the second, you are limited by the existing condition. If it's a 15 amp circuit (on breaker at main box), use only #14. If it's a 20 amp circuit, use #12. That's all after you've determined existing load on the line.

If the circuit being tapped has low usage items (ie not a refrigerator) that will not be in use when using your barn, should not be a problem. That means power equipment etc. 20 amp or higher would be better than a 15 amp so use #12 wire and 20 amp breaker or better if tapping off main box.
 

· Licensed Electrical Cont.
Joined
·
7,829 Posts
It depends if you're running a new run from the main box or tapping off an existing circuit at some kind of junction. If it's the second, you are limited by the existing condition. If it's a 15 amp circuit (on breaker at main box), use only #14. If it's a 20 amp circuit, use #12. That's all after you've determined existing load on the line.
This is very misleading. Are you saying he HAS to stay with #14 on a 15A and #12 on a 20A?? If so then this is wrong.
He can use bigger wire to compensate for voltage drop, even if it is tapping off an existing circuit. This is not an ideal situation, but it is completely legal and probably better than staying with the same size.



If the circuit being tapped has low usage items (ie not a refrigerator) that will not be in use when using your barn, should not be a problem. That means power equipment etc. 20 amp or higher would be better than a 15 amp so use #12 wire and 20 amp breaker or better if tapping off main box.
This confuses me to the point that I have no comment.
 
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