

Most aluminum needs an antioxidant coating connecting to the power terminal, but copper-clad aluminum doesn’t need it. More Corrosion Resistant Than Aluminum: Copper-clad aluminum wire protects the aluminum from corrosion.Cheaper but Not Cheapest: Copper-clad aluminum is more affordable than pure copper but more expensive than aluminum.AluminumĬopper-clad aluminum is your third option, and it provides some of the benefits of both previous options. The Short Answer: When using a 200 amp service, you’ll want a #2/0 copper wire. In for the Distance: Again, since copper is so highly conductive and sturdy, it’s better for length and doesn’t lose its voltage over longer distances.Īgain, copper is probably the best material for wiring, but it does have downsides, which we’ll touch on in the next section.Flexible: Since you can use thinner strands of copper wire, it’s much easier to bend and wrap without breaking.Heat doesn’t cause it to expand or flex nearly as much, so it stays in place. It’s also a lot more heat resistant than aluminum. Copper is corrosion-resistant and will stand the test of time. Heat and Corrosion Resistant: While copper changes color from oxidation, those changes don’t affect its performance.Because it’s great at conducting electricity, you can use it for much longer distances, and you can use a much smaller gauge than for aluminum. Only silver is better at conducting electricity. High Conductivity: Copper is a naturally highly conductive metal.Here’s everything you need to know about copper wiring:

However, copper can be more expensive and more complex to install. Its high conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance, and flexibility make it ideal for wiring in any situation. Copper WiringĬopper wiring is the best in the business. Then we’ll get into the factors you should consider when choosing your wiring. Let’s look at the difference between a copper wire and an aluminum or copper-clad aluminum wire.

The size wire you need for 200 amp service depends on the type of wire you’re getting. What Size Wire Do You Need for 200 Amp Service Don’t worry – we’ll explain each of these in detail below. You’ll need to consider a few things when selecting your wiring, including your personal preferences, the voltage drop, and the length of the wire.
