i am going to be installing a flood light outside, i am running the wire on the outside of the house. i have down some small electrical work light outlets and switches but not sure on running wire. i was looking at lowes at outdoor wire and there are different size gauges. just wondering what size or gauge is best to use for an outdoor flood light?
you will want to run the wiring in pvc conduit or regular conduit if the wiring is going to be exposed. it all your going to run is the outdoor light you could use 14awg wire.
Important! You need to check the breaker size. If it is a 20Amp circuit you must use #12 or greater. If it is a 15Amp circuit #14 or greater. Wire capacity should ALWAYS be equal to or greater than the circuit breaker.
Previous answer was partially correct. There are building codes depending on your local government. Some outside wires have to be in conduit, some have to enter and exit the ground in conduit, others do not require it. However, the wire size is associated with the circuit breaker that you are going to attach it to and the length or distance away from the circuit board it is going to be. Don't try to save money and buy indoor wire however, stick to the heavier outdoor coated wire. It is best to buy a higher Gage and not use it all then to buy a Gage that is too small.
