How to choose the right copper wire size for your project

How to choose the right copper wire size for your project

Choosing the correct copper wire size depends on three main factors:

  1. The current (Amps) being used.
  2. The wire length (the longer the length, the larger the wire needed).
  3. The type of application (surface mounting / conduit / motor work, etc.).

Choosing a wire that’s too small → the wire will overheat, experience voltage drop, and risk burning.
Choosing a wire that’s too large → safer, but unnecessarily high cost.

Copper wire size selection chart (for general use)

Approximate value for a 220V household electrical system.

Cable size (sq.mm.) It can receive approximately What is it used for?
1.5 mm² ~10 A Lighting
2.5 mm² ~16–20 A General electrical outlet
4 mm² ~25–32 A Small air conditioner / water heater
6 mm² ~32–40 A Large air conditioner / high load
10 mm² ~45–55 A Sub Main
16 mm² ~60–75 A Main house
25 mm² ~80–100 A Factory / Heavy Load

Example: Select for practical use.

Residential Buildings

  • Light Bulbs → 1.5 mm²
  • Plugs → 2.5 mm²
  • Air Conditioners → 4–6 mm²
  • Main House Cable → 10–16 mm²

Machinery/Motors

Requires consideration of actual motor power and current; typically starts from 4 mm² and above.