What Size Wire For 200 Amp Electrical Service? Full Guide

This entry was updated on January 28, 2024 by Kevin Pommells

To safely use a 200 amp electrical service, you will need to use #4/0 Aluminum or #2/0 Copper. These are the safest wire sizes because they will allow you to use the full amperage of your electrical service without too high of a voltage drop.

A certified electrician is necessary for handling these types of amperages and wiring.

Why Choose Copper Wiring?

Choosing to use copper wiring will provide the best protection from surges. Copper can be more expensive than other materials but there are certain benefits that makes the upfront cost worth it.

• CONDUCTIVITY - Copper is most conductive which is why someone would choose it.
• HEAT RESISTANCE -Heat resistance is another great benefit to choosing copper.
• CORROSION RESISTANCE - With a low reactivity rating, copper is the number one choice for many projects.
• MALLEABILITY - Being malleable means that when using copper you can bend it more easily than some other type of wiring.

Disadvantages of Aluminum Wire

• Expansion and contraction: Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper wire, which can cause loose connections and arcing.
• Difficult to solder: Aluminum wire is difficult to solder, which can make it more difficult to repair electrical connections.
• Not compatible with all connectors: Not all connectors are compatible with aluminum wire, so it is important to check the manufacturer's specifications before making a purchase.

Check Your Local Permit Requirements and Electrical Codes

Knowing the different rules and regulations that govern wire installation can make a big difference. Your local utility company may charge less for running the wire through conduits if you upgrade to aluminum or other more durable wiring. Be aware of any permits or fees that may be required, and whether your locality requires you to use particular brands and types of wiring. You never want to complete a wiring job only to find out that you have to remove it all and start over because it wasn't done properly or according to the electrical codes or permits.

This is where i will advise you again that handling 200 amps is not something that anyone can do. You should definitely hire a profession to complete a 200 amp job.

Cost to Install 200 Amp Electrical Service

The cost to install a 200 amp electrical service will always vary depending on many different factors. These factors will be listed below.

• Electrician will determine the cost of wiring based on their average rates in your area.
• The size of the service box, whether it's a 100 or 200 amp panel is another factor that can increase or decrease the cost to install a 200 amp electrical service.
• Another factor is how much work must be done to prepare for the installation (moving building structures, drywall tools).
• More factors include if it's overhead or underground service, and any other services either preceding or following this one (circuit breaker panels, storm panels).

The cost of installing these wires can cost anywhere from $750 to over $3,000.

NEC Recommendations for Wire Gauge

Source: HomeInspectionInsider

Want to know the wire sizes of other amperages? Visit some of our other pages below.

• 15 amp wire size?
• What size wire for 20 amps?
• Wire size for 50 amps?
• Wire size for 60 amps?
• Wire size for 100 amps?
• Wire size for 400 amp service?
• 200 amp panel upgrade cost
• How many breakers in a 200 amp panel
• Wire size for 40 amps

Conclusion

To use a 200 amp service, you need #2/0 copper or #4/0 aluminum wiring. Contact an electrician for more information. Making sure you have the right wire size will ensure that your electrical equipment operates properly and does not cause a dangerous situation.