Types of Electrical Wires and How to Choose the Best One for Your Home!

When it comes to electrical wiring, one should be very attentive while choosing the type of wire as it is a matter of safety, reliability and efficiency of future power supply. Electrical wires are the conductors that enable the circulation of electric power in homes and distribute it to various gadgets and clothes. However, not all wires are of the same kind, and various types of wires are made for different setups and conditions. In this article, you will learn the various types of wire, some of the specific uses of the wire and some tips for choosing the right wire for your home. 

What are Wires?

A wire is an elongated conductive structure made commonly from copper or aluminium which transports electrical current. These are core parts in any electrical circuit where they act as pathways conductors of electricity from sources to loads. The construction, material and insulation differ based on their usage and hence, to help make the right choice for your home, the following subcategories of wire are elaborated. 

Different Types of Wires With Their Specification

Below are the different types of wires used in house wiring.

Single Conductor Wires

Single conductor or solid conductor wires are of great use in home electrical systems. It is constructed from one continuous piece of metal such as copper or aluminium, coated with an insulating material that can be PVC. These wires are normally employed in general wiring applications like switches, outlets and lights. 

Applications:

• General house wiring
• Connecting switches, outlets, and lights
• Circuit breaker connections

Advantages:

• Easy to install
• Durable and resistant to wear
• Available in various gauges to handle different current loads

Multi-Conductor Wires

Multi-conductor wires are an array of individual conductor wires enclosed in a single jacket. These wires are normally incorporated in several wires that require to be connected into a single power source or a single device. Multi-conductor wires are provided in a variety of forms and include twisted pair and shielded types. 

Applications:

• Home theatre systems
• Security systems
• HVAC systems

Advantages:

• Simplifies installation by reducing the number of individual wires
• Provides protection against electromagnetic interference
• Suitable for complex wiring systems

Coaxial Cables

Coaxial cables are a special category of wires used to carry high frequency signals like those applied in the cable television networks, internet connections and radio frequency links. Such cables are made of a core conductor, enclosing an insulating layer, followed by a metal braid or screen, with an extra outer insulation sheath. 

Applications:

• Cable television
• Internet connections
• Radio and satellite communications

Advantages:

• High resistance to signal interference
• Capable of transmitting data over long distances
• Durable and long-lasting

Ethernet Cables 

Cable networking devices like ethernet cables are used to connect the networking devices to the internet or in the formation of LAN. These cables are made up of multiple pairs of insulated wires that are twisted on each other to reduce the effects of electromagnetic interferences. 

Applications:

• Connecting computers to routers or modems
• Setting up home or office networks
• High-speed internet connections

Advantages:

• Reliable data transmission
• Supports high-speed internet
• Available in various lengths and categories

Twisted Pair Cables

Another type of cable is called the twisted pair cables which is applied in the transmission of data signals, including telephone and computer networks. These cables contain two insulated wires twisted around each other with a view of minimising interconnection with other devices.

Applications:

• Telephone lines
• Computer networks
• Home automation systems

Advantages:

• Effective in reducing electromagnetic interference
• Cost-effective
• Suitable for various data transmission applications

Fibre Optic Cables

These consist of long strands of glass that are used to relay signals in the form of 'light' over prolonged distances at tremendous speed. Fibre optic cables include a core of glass or plastic surrounded by insulation layers and outer protection layer. The core also uses light to transmit the data signals, which implies that the transmission is both faster and of better quality. 

Applications:

• High-speed internet connections
• Cable television
• Telecommunication networks

Advantages:

• Extremely high data transmission speeds
• Immune to electromagnetic interference
• Capable of transmitting data over long distances

How to Choose Wire for a House?

Choosing the best electric wire for house wiring requires consideration in order to avoid dangerous shock currents, low efficiency and many other hazards. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the best wire for your home:

Wire Gauge

Wire gauge is the term used to describe the thickness of the wire, and from it, you can determine its ability to carry current. Standard wire thickness is specified using the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system. The number beside it is called the American Wire Gauge or AWG, and the lower the number, the thicker the wire is, and thus, the more current it can handle. If you are trying to compare one wire gauge with another, you may need to look at the electric load of the products that will be connected. For instance, 14-gauge is suitable for the lighting circuits, and 12-gauge wire is suitable for use in the outlets. 

Insulation Type

The type of insulation material used on the wire determines its endurance and compatibility with such conditions. Common insulation types include: 

• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC insulation is used for indoor wiring and has a very good resistance to moisture and chemicals. 
• Rubber: Most commonly associated with uses in exterior and commercial structures, rubber insulations include flexibility with heat and cold resistance. 
• Teflon: Teflon insulation provides resistance to high temperatures and is employed in specific uses such as high-frequency circuits. 

Temperature Rating

Temperature rating of a wire is a measure of how high a temperature the wire can afford to reach before it gets damaged. This is particularly important in regions where the wire could overheat for instance in regions close to a heater or in an attic. It is advisable to select the wire with a temperature that surpasses the highest environmental temperature in the installation area. 

Voltage Rating

The voltage rating tells about the maximum voltage the wire can handle at a given time. Rising above this rating can lead to insulation failure and an increase in the risk level of an electric shock. Check that the wire has the correct voltage rating for that particular application. For most residential wiring, a voltage rating of 600 volts is adequate. 

Environmental Considerations

Think of the conditions under which the wire is to be run. For instance if wire is to be used in an area with moisture or buried underground, that is in direct burial application, ask for a cable that has direct burial characteristics or UF cable. 

Read Also -  Stranded vs. Solid Wire: Optimal Choice and Reasons

Conclusion

Choosing the right wires for your home can be challenging. However, this guide will help you make the right choice to make the wiring of your house safe and reliable. You can conveniently shop for different types of electrical wire from the eShop of Schneider Electric.