This entry was updated on December 14, 2023 by Kevin Pommells

How Many Amps Can 6/3 Wire Carry?

Generally, 6/3 wire has an ampacity of around 55 amps, making it suitable for a range of applications. It is however very important to do the necessary checks to ensure your system will be ok with 6/3 wire.

The amp rating of a wire is a crucial factor in ensuring that your electrical system operates safely and efficiently. When it comes to 6/3 wire, the amp rating will depend on several factors such as the wire's insulation type and the temperature of the surrounding environment.

How Far Can You Run 6/3 Gauge Wire?

The length of the wire can also affect its ampacity. In general, 6/3 wire can carry up to 55 amps over a distance of 200 feet, but this will depend on various factors such as the wire's insulation type, voltage being carries, and the temperature of the environment. If you need to run wires over a longer distance, you may need to consider using a larger gauge wire or installing additional wiring.

55 Amps (Voltage Requirement)	Maximum Distance (Copper)
120 Volts	76 ft
240 Volts	153 ft
480 Volts	306 ft

This table assumes a maximum 3% voltage drop and a 1 phase line.

What is 6-3 Wire Used For?

6-3 wire is commonly used for applications such as electric stoves and dryers which require a significant amount of current to run. It consists of three insulated conductor wires, each with a gauge of 6. This wire is also suitable for other high-current applications such as welding equipment and large air compressors. Additionally, 6/3 wire can be used for RV and camping setups to power appliances and devices that require a high amount of current.

Here is a table with some options

Product Name	Length	Price
6/3 NM-B, Non-Metallic, Sheathed Cable, Residential Indoor Wire, Equivalent to Romex (60ft Cut)	60 ft	$243.01
Wirenco 6/3 NM-B, Non-Metallic, Sheathed Cable, Residential Indoor Wire, Equivalent to Romex (25Ft Cut)	25 ft	$97.61
6/3 UF (Underground Feeder - Direct Earth Burial) Cable	60 ft	$306.40
Southwire 125' 6/3 W/G NMB Cable	125 ft	$468.85

Can I Use 6-3 Wire Outdoors?

The short answer is yes. However, it's essential to choose the right type of wire for the specific outdoor application. For example, you'll need to use wire with a suitable insulation type that can withstand exposure to moisture, sunlight, and extreme temperatures. THWN-2 wire is a popular choice for outdoor use as it has a moisture-resistant thermoplastic nylon coating. If you're unsure about which type of wire to use, consult with an electrician or an expert in outdoor electrical systems. It's always important to prioritize safety when dealing with outdoor electrical systems.

Installing 6/3 Wires

Now that you know what 6/3 wire amp rating is and how to choose the right wire, it's time to install it.

1. Start by planning your layout and determining the necessary length of the wires.
2. You will need get tools such as wire cutters, wire strippers, crimpers, etc.
3. Remember to turn off the power before making any connections, and double-check your work to avoid any mistakes.
4. Connect the wires together using wire connectors.
5. Make sure the connections are secure and free from any exposed wires.
6. Use cable ties to secure the wires in place and prevent them from moving around.
7. Install conduit to protect the wires from physical damage and environmental hazards.
8. Install junction boxes to house the electrical connections and protect them from physical damage.
9. Use electrical tape to insulate and protect the electrical connections.

Items you will need

Item	Purpose/Use
Safety glasses or goggles	Protect eyes from flying debris or sparks during installation
Work gloves	Protect hands from cuts, scrapes, or punctures
Hard hat	Protect head from falling objects or potential hazards
Respirator or dust mask	Protect lungs from inhaling dust, fumes, or vapors during install
Non-conductive footwear	Prevent electrical shock or burns while working on live circuits
Fire extinguisher	Quickly put out fires that may occur during installation
Electrical tape	Insulate exposed wires and prevent electrical shock
Voltage detector	Test for live electrical circuits and prevent electrical shock
First aid kit	Treat injuries that may occur during installation
Ladder or scaffolding	Safely reach areas where wiring needs to be installed
Electrical Wire	Used to conduct electricity in the installation process
Wire Cutters	Cut and strip insulation from ends of wires
Wire Strippers	Remove insulation from ends of wires
Wire Connectors	Connect wires together using twist-on, crimp, or solder types
Circuit Breakers	Protect the electrical system from overloads and short circuits
Cable Ties	Secure wires in place and prevent movement
Conduit	Protect wires from physical damage and environmental hazards
Junction Boxes	House electrical connections and protect from physical damage
Voltage Tester	Test voltage of electrical system and ensure safety

P.S. If you are not familiar with installing electrical wires, please consult a professional.

Types of 6/3 Wires

There are several types of 6/3 wires, each with a different amp rating and recommended usage. For instance, THHN wire is suitable for dry or damp locations, while THWN-2 wire is appropriate for wet locations. You'll also need to consider the insulation and jacket material, as well as the wire's flexibility and durability.

Wire Type	Pros	Cons
THW	Affordable Easy to install Suitable for dry locations	Not suitable for wet or damp locations Limited temperature range Not flame-retardant
THWN	Moisture-resistant Suitable for wet and damp locations Resistant to heat and sunlight	More expensive than THW Not suitable for high-temperature applications
SE	Suitable for direct burial Moisture-resistant Durable and long-lasting	Limited to specific applications May require conduit in certain situations
USE	Suitable for direct burial Durable and long-lasting Resistant to moisture and corrosion	Limited to specific applications May require conduit in certain situations
XHHW	Resistant to heat and moisture Durable and long-lasting Suitable for high-temperature applications	More expensive than other wire types May require conduit in certain situations