TryBuildCalc

Wire Size Verification Checklist

Essential Checklist+

Complete these critical checks before approving the work or proceeding to the next construction stage.

✓15 Inspection Points
✓5 Verification Categories
✓Load & Circuit Inputs+
  • Load current confirmed from equipment nameplate, not estimated
  • Continuous vs. non-continuous load correctly classified
  • System voltage and phase confirmed against the actual panel/service
  • Run length measured as actual one-way routed distance, not straight-line or round-trip
✓Ampacity & Derating+
  • Insulation temperature rating and terminal/equipment rating entered separately, not assumed equal
  • 14/12/10 AWG copper conductors capped at 15A/20A/30A breaker regardless of table ampacity
  • Conductor-count derating applied when more than 3 current-carrying conductors share a raceway
  • Aluminum conductor terminations confirmed AL-rated (not CU-only)
✓Voltage Drop+
  • Voltage drop checked independently of the ampacity result, not assumed to be fine
✓Installation & Code Compliance+
  • Breaker/OCPD size does not exceed the selected conductor's allowable ampacity or small-conductor cap
  • Local code edition and any local amendments confirmed before finalizing
  • Permit and inspection requirements confirmed for the scope of work
  • Work beyond a simple, single branch circuit reviewed or performed by a licensed electrician
✓Conduit Sizing+
  • Conduit fill checked as a separate NEC Chapter 9 requirement, not assumed covered by the ampacity result
  • Total conductor count for fill purposes includes every physical conductor, including the equipment grounding conductor
Full QC Checklist+

Verify load classification, ampacity and derating, voltage drop, and code compliance.

✓23 Inspection Points
✓5 Verification Categories
✓Load & Circuit Inputs+
  • Load current confirmed from equipment nameplate, not estimated
  • Continuous vs. non-continuous load correctly classified
  • System voltage and phase confirmed against the actual panel/service
  • Run length measured as actual one-way routed distance, not straight-line or round-trip
  • Power factor entered correctly when sizing from a wattage nameplate rating on a motor or reactive load
✓Ampacity & Derating+
  • Insulation temperature rating and terminal/equipment rating entered separately, not assumed equal
  • 14/12/10 AWG copper conductors capped at 15A/20A/30A breaker regardless of table ampacity
  • Conductor-count derating applied when more than 3 current-carrying conductors share a raceway
  • Ambient temperature correction applied for hot locations (attics, rooftops, outdoor conduit in sun)
  • Aluminum conductor terminations confirmed AL-rated (not CU-only)
  • Cable run through or in contact with thermal insulation checked against the cable-type-specific derating rule
✓Voltage Drop+
  • Voltage drop checked independently of the ampacity result, not assumed to be fine
  • Maximum voltage drop percentage matched to the load's actual sensitivity
  • Detached structures, well pumps, and other long runs specifically flagged for voltage-drop review
  • Single-phase vs. three-phase voltage-drop multiplier confirmed correct for the actual circuit
✓Installation & Code Compliance+
  • Breaker/OCPD size does not exceed the selected conductor's allowable ampacity or small-conductor cap
  • Conductor color coding (hot, neutral, ground) follows local code convention, consistently across the circuit
  • Local code edition and any local amendments confirmed before finalizing
  • Permit and inspection requirements confirmed for the scope of work
  • Work beyond a simple, single branch circuit reviewed or performed by a licensed electrician
✓Conduit Sizing+
  • Conduit fill checked as a separate NEC Chapter 9 requirement, not assumed covered by the ampacity result
  • Total conductor count for fill purposes includes every physical conductor, including the equipment grounding conductor
  • Conduit type selected matches what will actually be installed (EMT, PVC Schedule 40, or RMC)
Inspection Notes+
Use the latest approved drawings, specifications, and site measurements.
Complete all critical checks before proceeding to the next work stage.
Record deviations and confirm rectification where required.

Related Calculators & Guides

Wire Size CalculatorOpen the related calculator and verify the current project inputs.

FAQ

Use it after collecting the project inputs and again before approving or closing the relevant work stage.
No. It supports verification but does not replace approved drawings, specifications, codes, manufacturer requirements, or professional inspection.