What type of wire do i need to install a normal inside wall outlet? Do i have to use solid copper wire?
Buy AWG # 14X2 cable inside includes one more bare copper wire for grounding. Solid single conductor is the common product.
Selecting the wire gauge is the easiest part : AWG 12 for a 20 amp receptacle or AWG 14 for 15 amps. Solid wiring is standard for receptacles ( stranded is used in applications where flexibility during or after installation is required). Where will you take power from? Can the circuit you tap carry the additional load? 3 conductor (L1,L0,Ground) BX is the most desirable for indoor wiring at 120v or220v. Will your receptacle be in a kitchen, a bathroom, or near a good ground? If so it should be a GFCI.Will you be able to identify the the circuit's polarity, and verify ground contiuity? Even with three conductor BX, you will want to be sure to use bushings between the conductors and the rough edges of the BX, and to connect the fittings securely at the junction boxes. The actual details and skills required to install a receptacle take years to learn. Take the time to browse through a how- to book or hire a licensed electrician if you want safe reliable work.
If the circuit breaker feeding the receptacle is 15 amps, you must use a #14 minimum size. if it is a 20 amp breaker, you must use a #12 minimum. You can use either solid or twisted. TexMav
