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    treborc's Avatar
    treborc Posts: 16, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Apr 29, 2006, 03:18 PM
    Wire size for Outlets in basement family room
    I am finally getting around to doing our family room in the basement. I was wondering what size wire to pull for the outlets should I use 12/2 with ground or 14/2 with ground. Also putting in recess lights should I use 12/2 with ground for them or 14/2 with ground.

    Thanks

    T
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #2

    Apr 29, 2006, 06:11 PM
    #14 is fine for both, but #12 is used so much more nowadays for extra measure, if you can afford it.
    treborc's Avatar
    treborc Posts: 16, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    May 1, 2006, 11:55 AM
    For running the lights there will be of them but only on one switch do I just chain them together or is there something special I need to do?
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #4

    May 1, 2006, 12:00 PM
    If I understand you correctly, you can feed the switch, and then go to each light, from light to light.
    treborc's Avatar
    treborc Posts: 16, Reputation: 1
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    #5

    May 1, 2006, 04:01 PM
    Yes that is exactly what I am asking If I just run the power threw the switch then out to the lights. From light one to light two etc.
    bbeard33's Avatar
    bbeard33 Posts: 6, Reputation: 2
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    #6

    May 2, 2006, 11:07 AM
    Not sure if it's national code or local, but the work I did recently required 12/2 wire for outlets and 20 amp breaker. Electrical inspector told me it is a new requirement to handle more electrical devices (tv, stereo, hairdryer) with bigger amperage draw.

    Regardless of whether I agree, I did it since my work won't be approved without doing it his way.
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #7

    May 2, 2006, 05:37 PM
    That is exactly why location is so important, thou I my not know which code is in effect in your locale, I currently am stuck between two editions, the 2002 and 2005 editons of the National Electric Code.

    While my location is officially on the 2002, with the 2005 printed, we bounce a bit between both, not always finding the change, but always trying to find the most stringent code to follow.

    Another reason is the rule to use #12 wire was in the code at one time, and removed, but many local inspectors continue to enforce it, because it does make sense in many instances.

    Best to find out which edition of the code is in effect in your area, and also check for local codes that may be in effect.
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