How many amps can 18 gauge wire handle 12v?
This is the traditional, and very old, system. The actual (nominal) bore diameters of the various gauges are as follows: 10 gauge = .775 inch, 12 gauge = .729 inch, 16 gauge = .662 inch, 20 gauge = .615 inch, 28 gauge = .550 inch.
AWG 18 has a solid diameter of about 1mm. Adding 6 halves the diameter, Subtracting 6 doubles the diameter. Adding 20 divides the diameter by 10, and subtracting 20 multiplies the diameter by 10.
12 AWG gauge wires can handle up to 20 amps at 120 volts if one wire is white for the neutral return line. If neither of the two wires is white, being black. red, blue, or another color, each should carry one side of the 240 volts line. So even with only two wires, beware if you come across a circuit with a feed that doesn’t have a white neutral present. 10 AWG gauge wires are for loads up to 30 amps, usually at 240 volts. Where the appliances they feed have internal circuitry running on
In accordance with US electrical codes the max current for circuits utilizing 12 gauge wire is 20 Amps. However, 12 gauge copper wire is capable of handling much higher currents.
The gauge is the size of the wire. The higher the number the smaller the wire. If your stereo is high power you might want to use 14 or 12 gauge wire for better power handling. Smaller wire 16 gauge or 18 gauge can get warm or hot with high power amps.
More specifically, can you connect 14-gauge wire to 12-gauge wire? While this is possible, it is not recommended in order to prevent overloading. For example, if the amp capacity of your breaker is 20 amps, you should only use 12-gauge wire, and if it’s 15 amps, the entire circuit should be 14-gauge.
Most people would likely recommend using a solid core 18-gauge wire for your LED lights. The cost difference between this wire size and a much smaller cable is negligible, and 18-gauge is about as big as you can go if you would like your wires to fit into most holders or terminals.
18-gauge are used for low-voltage lighting and lamp cords in 10 amps. 16-gauge are used for light-duty extension cords supporting 13 amps. 14-gauge are usedfor light fixtures, lamps, lighting circuits with 15 amps.
NO don’t ever mix AWG Wire gauges they are different for a reason and the main reason is amperage. Sure it will work but it’s 100% wrong and the #18 gauge wire becomes a fusable link and potential fire hazard. It would be easier to use the #18 wire to pull #12 wire and make it right.
18 gauge wire is safe to use at low currents. It would be recommended to fuse it though. BUT, doorbell wire is not a safe option at 120 volts. Most likely it is not intended for use above 48 volts.
16 Amps
A conservative estimate for several feet of 18 gauge wire is 16 Amps. If you have only 12 gauge wire, the 18 gauge wire can handle more than 16 Amps.
