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    AZDesertRat's Avatar
    AZDesertRat Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Oct 26, 2010, 08:45 PM
    What gauge of wire do I use from a main panel to the sub panel
    I am planning on adding a sub panel to my workshop where I plan on having a 20 amp breaker for the air compressor, another for the window AC unit, and a 15 amp for 6 outlets and another 15 amp for 3 fluorescent lights. I plan on running the wire from the main panel to the sub panel through conduit around the base of the house for approximately 40 feet. What type of wire should I use?
    Missouri Bound's Avatar
    Missouri Bound Posts: 1,532, Reputation: 94
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    #2

    Oct 26, 2010, 09:00 PM
    The wiring size depends on what breaker you decide to feed the sub panel with... IE... a 60 amp breaker would require #6 copper wire. Are you aware of the grounding requirements for a sub-panel and the type of panel to use? Are you going to have less than 6 breakers in this panel?
    AZDesertRat's Avatar
    AZDesertRat Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Oct 28, 2010, 05:52 PM
    I will be sinking an 8' copper rod and grounding the sub-panel to it. I will be running a total of 5 breakers so a 60 amp breaker at the main panel and #6 wire should work.
    donf's Avatar
    donf Posts: 5,679, Reputation: 582
    Printers & Electronics Expert
    		  
    #4

    Oct 28, 2010, 06:23 PM

    Just an FYI, if you run electricity out to your shop, you must install a light outside the entrance door.

    Also, all receptacles in the garage must be GFCI protected and I strongly suggest that you use 20 amp for your receptacles, not 15 amp.
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