Select wire thickness

The gauge of wire you use will depend on the amount of current passing through it and the maximum amps your electrical system can handle. There is a formula you can use to calculate the correct wire size: wire size (in mm²) = current (in amps) / maximum amps your system can handle.

Another way to determine the correct wire size is to use tables with wire sizes and ampere values. Below is an overview of the most common wire sizes and the corresponding maximum ampere values:

• 0.5 mm²: maximum 3 amps
• 0.75 mm²: maximum 5 amps
• 1.0 mm²: maximum 7 amps
• 1.5 mm²: maximum 10 amps
• 2.5 mm²: maximum 16 amps
• 4.0 mm²: maximum 25 amps
• 6.0 mm²: maximum 32 amps
• 10.0 mm²: maximum 50 amps

Please note that these values ​​are only valid for indoor installations and under normal conditions. In certain cases, such as outdoor installations or high temperature conditions, it may be necessary to use a larger wire gauge than the above values ​​indicate.

It is always best to seek professional advice or refer to the standards and guidelines of the manufacturer of the electrical device or electrical installation for which you are using the wire.