An electrician needs both theoretical and practical knowledge of the equipment and materials they use daily. Since homes vary widely in age, style, and type of construction, you might encounter several different types of electrical wire during a job. The guide below looks closer at their differences.

What Are Common Kinds of Residential Electrical Wire?

1. NM Cable

Popularly used for wiring circuits, NM cable should only be utilized in dry locations. It features several conductors wrapped together in color-coded insulation that specifies the gauge. For example, 14-gauge conductors are white, 12-gauge conductors are yellow, 10-gauge conductors are orange, and six and eight-gauge conductors are black.

2. THHN Wire

THHN wiring is used inside conduits. Unlike NM cable, it contains only one conductor inside its tubular plastic or metal casing. Because it is so well-protected, it is often found in areas where the wiring will be exposed—such as in basements, garages, and unfinished parts of a home.

3. UF Cable

Generally, UF cable carries power into the home. Its gray, insulated sheathing allows it to deliver electricity underground safely, even in wet conditions. This type of wire includes multiple conductors and a ground wire to help it deal with the significant amount of energy it carries.

4. Low Voltage Wire

Outdoor lighting features, doorbells, and other small circuit appliances often utilize low voltage wire. Found inside plastic sheathing, these small, thin wires are usually easy to identify.

Are you an electrical contractor in need of supplies for your upcoming jobs? Husker Electric Supply will help. Based in Lincoln, NE, this wholesale electrical distributor offers a wide array of light fixtures, circuit breakers, electrical wire, heating equipment, and utility tools. The locally owned and operated company has been serving electricians and contractors throughout the area for more than 40 years, earning a reputation for providing quality materials and knowledgeable advice. Visit the company’s website to see a list of offerings. To request more information, call (402) 467-4624.