Prepare for the North Carolina Home Inspector Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question with hints and explanations. Get exam-ready today!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is the minimum size wire that can be used for branch circuits in a home?

  1. No. 12 AWG copper

  2. No. 14 AWG copper

  3. No. 10 AWG copper

  4. No. 16 AWG copper

The correct answer is: No. 14 AWG copper

The minimum size wire that can be used for branch circuits in a home is No. 14 AWG copper. This gauge is recognized in the National Electrical Code (NEC) for handling a maximum of 15 amps for circuit breakers or fuses. It is important for branch circuits because using a wire that is too small can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards. When considering the other wire sizes, No. 12 AWG is used for circuits that require 20 amps, while No. 10 AWG is typically designated for 30-amp circuits. No. 16 AWG is too small for typical branch circuits in residential settings and is not suitable for standard household wiring needs. The focus here is on the safety and compliance with electrical codes, emphasizing that No. 14 AWG is the minimum acceptable size for many general-purpose circuits found in homes.