I am replacing an existing electrical short wire (about 3 inches - can't tell what it is) from my circuit panel to my central air breaker box. I am also extending it 15 feet. My air conditioner panel box is rated for 30 amps, but my air conditioner has a max value of 22.6 Amps imprinted on the side. I bought some 12-2 wire, but should I go with the 10 gage instead?
Use the coaching on the nameplate for the air conditioner. It says max fuse length is 20 amps. on the grounds that's 240 V, the air conditioner has a 2 line feed plus the impartial so be sure the two fuses are 20 amps. Now on the grounds which you're fusing it at 20 amps, be sure the twine feeding the air conditioner is 12 AWG. The 14 AWG is rated for 15 amps max. you may choose a 12/3 cable feeding your disconnect and air conditioner.
yes 10 ga is the best 12 will only cary 20 amps safely
You need to use # 10 AWG wire because the breaker is rated at 30 amps. Note that # 12 AWG is ok for up to 20 amps.
What is your minimum circuit ampacity? If your maximum is 22.6, your minimum should run around 16amps. If this is the case #12/2 will be sufficient. 12/2 is rated for all intensive purposes at 20 amps max. But it will handle up to 25 amps when not derated.
A current draw of 22.6 amps will require 10 gauge wire. 12 gauge is good for a max of 20 amps (legally).
