Are you planning a renovation in your home, or do you need to rewire an outlet and are left wondering just what is 14 2 wire used for, and is it the correct wire for the job?
Choosing the correct wires might seem confusing, but once you understand the basics, you’ll have no problem selecting the proper wiring for your lights or appliances.
Whether you’re an experienced electrician or have no idea what 14 2 wire is, it’s essential to understand how and when to use different wiring. Here, I’ll uncover what 14 2 wire is used for, its applications, and more.
What Is Romex 14 2 Wire
Romex 14 2 wire is one of the most common wires used in home construction. This type of cabling uses a non-metallic sheathing, hot wire, neutral, and ground wire inside.
The 14-gauge is one of the smallest cables used in homes and can only handle a 15-amp circuit. So it’s safe to use for lights and other low-power appliances and devices. While it can be also used for outlets, many electricians will use 12-gauge or larger wiring to safely power larger appliances in your home.
Fourteen gauge wires are rated for 15-amp circuits and can be used to power lights and other low-power appliances and devices.
What Is 14 2 Wire Used For
The 14 2 electrical wires are best used for outlets and lighting and are acceptable for any appliance that can run on a 15-amp circuit. Below are some of the most common applications for 14 2 wire.
- Interior lighting fixtures
- Outdoor post lights
- Outlet with televisions and entertainment devices
- Ceiling fans
- Doorbells
- Smoke Detectors
- Any device on a 15-amp circuit
Larger appliances require bigger cables and a larger circuit. For these devices, you’ll need to upgrade to 12-gauge or greater wiring.
Should I Use 12 or 14 Gauge Wire?
Each type of wiring has its uses in your home. 14-gauge wire can handle up to 15-amp circuits. You’ll need to choose wiring based on your needs and use.
A 14-gauge wire is fine for most home lighting and outlets in living rooms or bedrooms and is safe for any 15-amp circuit.
For any appliance on a larger circuit, you’ll need to use 12-gauge or higher. Twelve gauge wires can handle larger appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, AC units, and wall light switches.
You should never run 14 gauge wire on a 20-amp circuit. This could cause overheating and, consequently, a fire.
Gauge wiring 10, 8, or 6 is even bigger and should be used for wall heaters, ovens, electric dryers, and other major appliances. Central heat, ranges, and on-demand water heaters will use even larger cabling that can handle up to 200-amp circuits.
How Many Outlets Can You Run on a 14 2 Wire?
The National Electrical Code (NEC) has placed no limit on the number of outlets you can run on a 14 2 wire.
While there is no limit, a 15-amp circuit can safely power eight receptacles. Each outlet typically has two receptacles. This means a 14 2 wire can run four outlets effectively.
If you upgrade to a 20-amp circuit, you can safely power five outlets on a single 14 2 wire. This circuit should still be used for low-power devices like lights.
However, some counties do have restrictions on the number of outlets you can have on a 14 2 wire. Please check with your local building codes before performing any electrical work on your home.
Can I Use 14 Gauge Wire for Outlets?
A 14-gauge wire can be used for any outlet that is on a 15-amp circuit. This is fine for most light circuits or smaller appliances. As noted above, you can safely run 4–5 outlets with 14 gauge wire, depending on the application.
If you plan on using major appliances on the outlet, you’ll want to choose a larger gauge wire that can handle the device.
Can You Mix 14-Gauge and 12-Gauge Wire?
You can use both 14-gauge and 12-gauge wiring in your home. If you do plan on mixing wiring, you’ll need to replace the breaker with a 15-amp circuit. The 14-gauge wire carries a smaller load and won’t handle larger than a 15-amp circuit.
What Is the Difference Between 14 2 and 14 3 Wire?
Both these wires would be the same 14-gauge size but are different inside. A 14 2 wire has two insulated conductors and a bare ground wire. Inside the 14 3 wires, there are three conductor wires.
A 14 3 wire is commonly used inside three-way light switches.
FAQ’s What Is 14 2 Wire Used For
Still, have more questions? Wiring your home can be extremely dangerous, and it’s better to be aware of how to use each type of wiring safely during installation. Below are some of the most common questions I’m asked when installing 14 2 wiring for homes.
What Is 14 2 Wire Used For: Verdict
As you can see, 14 2 wires have their use in your home. They are effective at providing electricity to most lighting fixtures and small appliances. If you are running a 15-amp circuit, you should be fine with 14 2 wires.
For larger appliances like a dishwasher, a refrigerator, or an electric heater, you’ll need to upgrade to a larger wire. These appliances require a 20-amp circuit and need 12 gauge or greater wiring to safely power the devices.
Hopefully, this article provided the information you need to safely choose the right wiring for your home.