50 amp breaker...what size wire?

Amps…Copper…Alum

40…8 ga…6 ga
60…6 ga…4 ga

What size for 50 amps? Does it remain at 8 and 6?

I would always go to the next size up. But that is what i do

Most 6 gauge copper is only good for 55 amps due to the temperature rating but its allowed for 60 around here since you can rarely see the specs on the sheathing.

Rule of thumb 125% should be used

So, 12 AWG is not good. Cause that’s what I found. :wink:

LOLOL you have to be kidding

I think it’s okay. I’m sure they’re just trying to pre-melt it for recycling. :wink:

Joe, there are many factors involved, for instance #8 CU THHN is good for 50 amps but 8/3 Romex is not, you would need 6/3 if Romex. Also, there are applications where #12 would be acceptable on a 50 amp circuit, for example a tap on a cooking appliance circuit (210.19(A)exception No 1), or a motor circuit where overload protection is provided at the motor.