14/3 Vs 14/2: Which One Should You Choose?

Oleh Delores Willms June 10, 2023 Post a Comment

When it comes to electrical wiring, choosing the right size and type of wire is crucial. Two commonly used types of wires are 14/2 and 14/3. The two numbers refer to the number of conductors (wires) inside the cable, with the first number being the gauge of the wire. In this blog post, we'll be discussing the differences between 14/3 and 14/2 wires, their applications, and which one you should choose for your project.

Section 1: What is 14/2 Wire?

14/2 wire is a type of electrical wire that has two conductors inside a plastic jacket. The "14" refers to the gauge of the wire, which is the diameter of the wire. In the case of 14/2 wire, the diameter is 1.6 millimeters (or .064 inches). This wire is commonly used for lighting fixtures and outlets in residential buildings.

The plastic jacket of the wire is color-coded to indicate its purpose. For example, black is used for hot wires, white for neutral wires, and green or bare copper for ground wires. It's important to follow the correct color-coding when installing electrical wiring to avoid any accidents.

Section 2: What is 14/3 Wire?

14/3 wire is similar to 14/2 wire, but instead of two conductors, it has three. The third conductor is usually red and is used as a traveler wire in three-way switch applications. This means that 14/3 wire is commonly used for light fixtures that are controlled by two switches, such as those found in hallways or staircases.

The extra wire in 14/3 wire provides more flexibility in how the light fixture is controlled, allowing for greater convenience and ease of use.

Section 3: What are the Differences Between 14/2 and 14/3 Wires?

The main difference between 14/2 and 14/3 wires is the number of conductors inside the cable. 14/2 wire has two conductors, while 14/3 wire has three. This additional conductor is usually a red wire that is used as a traveler wire in three-way switch applications.

Another difference between the two types of wire is their applications. 14/2 wire is commonly used for lighting fixtures and outlets in residential buildings, while 14/3 wire is used for light fixtures that are controlled by two switches, such as those found in hallways or staircases.

Finally, there is a difference in cost between the two wires. 14/3 wire is more expensive than 14/2 wire due to the additional conductor.

Section 4: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between 14/2 and 14/3 wire depends on your specific application. If you're installing a lighting fixture that will be controlled by a single switch, then 14/2 wire is sufficient. However, if you're installing a light fixture that will be controlled by two switches, then 14/3 wire is necessary.

It's important to note that using the wrong type of wire for your application can result in safety hazards, such as electrical fires. If you're unsure which type of wire to use, consult with a licensed electrician.

Section 5: What is Gauge?

Gauge refers to the diameter of the wire. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire. This means that a 12-gauge wire is thicker than a 14-gauge wire. Thicker wires have less resistance to electrical current and can carry more power over longer distances without experiencing voltage drop, making them ideal for high-power applications.

Section 6: What is Voltage Drop?

Voltage drop refers to the loss of voltage as electrical current flows through a wire. This occurs because wires have resistance, and the longer the wire, the more resistance it has. When the voltage drops below a certain level, it can cause problems with the performance of electrical devices.

Using a thicker wire (such as a 12-gauge wire instead of a 14-gauge wire) can help reduce voltage drop over longer distances.

Section 7: What is Resistance?

Resistance is the opposition to the flow of electrical current through a wire. All wires have some degree of resistance, which is measured in ohms. The longer the wire, the more resistance it has. Thicker wires have less resistance than thinner wires, which means they can handle more current without overheating.

Section 8: Can You Use 14/2 Wire for Outlets?

Yes, you can use 14/2 wire for outlets. However, it's important to note that the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that 15-amp circuits be wired with 14-gauge wire or larger. This means that if you're wiring an outlet on a 15-amp circuit, you'll need to use 14-gauge wire.

Section 9: Can You Use 14/3 Wire for Outlets?

Yes, you can use 14/3 wire for outlets. However, it's important to note that the third conductor (usually red) is not used for outlets and should be capped off with a wire nut.

Section 10: Can You Use 14/2 Wire for Lights?

Yes, you can use 14/2 wire for lights. However, if you're installing a light fixture that will be controlled by two switches (such as those found in hallways or staircases), then you'll need to use 14/3 wire.

Section 11: Can You Use 14/3 Wire for Lights?

Yes, you can use 14/3 wire for lights. In fact, if you're installing a light fixture that will be controlled by two switches (such as those found in hallways or staircases), then you'll need to use 14/3 wire.

Section 12: What is the Maximum Length of 14-Gauge Wire?

The maximum length of 14-gauge wire depends on the application and the voltage being used. For example, for a 120-volt circuit, the maximum length of 14-gauge wire is approximately 50 feet.

It's important to note that the longer the wire, the more resistance it has, which can cause voltage drop. If you're unsure about the maximum length of wire for your application, consult with a licensed electrician.

Section 13: What is the Maximum Length of 12-Gauge Wire?

The maximum length of 12-gauge wire also depends on the application and voltage being used. For a 120-volt circuit, the maximum length of 12-gauge wire is approximately 80 feet.

Again, it's important to note that the longer the wire, the more resistance it has, which can cause voltage drop. If you're unsure about the maximum length of wire for your application, consult with a licensed electrician.

Section 14: How Much Does 14/2 Wire Cost?

The cost of 14/2 wire varies depending on the length of the wire and the supplier. On average, you can expect to pay around $0.20 per foot for 14/2 wire.

Section 15: How Much Does 14/3 Wire Cost?

As mentioned earlier, 14/3 wire is more expensive than 14/2 wire due to the additional conductor. On average, you can expect to pay around $0.30 per foot for 14/3 wire.

In conclusion, choosing between 14/2 and 14/3 wire depends on your specific application. If you're installing a lighting fixture that will be controlled by a single switch, then 14/2 wire is sufficient. However, if you're installing a light fixture that will be controlled by two switches, then 14/3 wire is necessary.

Remember to always follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) when wiring electrical circuits to ensure safety and prevent accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 14/2 and 12/2 wire?

The main difference between 14/2 and 12/2 wire is the gauge of the wire. 14/2 wire has a gauge of 14, while 12/2 wire has a gauge of 12. Thicker wires have less resistance to electrical current and can carry more power over longer distances without experiencing voltage drop, making them ideal for high-power applications.

Can I use 14/3 wire for a ceiling fan?

Yes, you can use 14/3 wire for a ceiling fan. In fact, 14/3 wire is recommended for ceiling fans because it allows for greater flexibility in how the fan is controlled.

How many amps can 14/2 wire handle?

14/2 wire can handle up to 15 amps of electrical current.

How many amps can 14/3 wire handle?

14/3 wire can also handle up to 15 amps of electrical current.

Can you use 14/3 wire for an outlet?

Yes, you can use 14/3 wire for an outlet. However, the third conductor (usually red) is not used for outlets and should be capped off with a wire nut.

Can you use 14/2 wire for a dishwasher?

No, you cannot use 14/2 wire for a dishwasher. Dishwashers require a dedicated circuit with a minimum of 12-gauge wire.

Can you use 14/3 wire for a garbage disposal?

No, you cannot use 14/3 wire for a garbage disposal. Garbage disposals require a dedicated circuit with a minimum of 12-gauge wire.

How do you connect 14/3 wire to a three-way switch?

To connect 14/3 wire to a three-way switch, use the black and red wires as travelers and the white wire as the common wire. The green or bare copper wire should be connected to the ground screw on the switch.

Can you use 14/2 wire for a bathroom fan?

Yes, you can use 14/2 wire for a bathroom fan. However, if the fan has a built-in heater, it will require a dedicated circuit with a minimum of 12-gauge wire.

How do I know if I need 14/2 or 14/3 wire?

If you're installing a lighting fixture that will be controlled by a single switch, then 14/2 wire is sufficient. However, if you're installing a light fixture that will be controlled by two switches, then 14/3 wire is necessary.