Electrical – What size wire should I use for a 60amp subpanel

electricalsubpanel

I am installing a 60 amp subpanel in a workshop in my backyard and I will have 2 – 20 amp services with 4-5 outlets on each and 1 – 15 amp service for lighting. The length from the main panel to the workshop is about 105 feet. I will be using a double pole 60 and GFI circuit breaker in the main panel to a 60 amp pull out on outside of work shop then inside to the subpanel. What would be a good size wire. I may run one saw at a time or a couple of saws.

Best Answer

6AWG copper wire would be the minimum for a 60A subpanel but with a 105ft distance you have too much voltage drop and need to go up to 4AWG copper to keep the voltage drop within acceptable limits (usually 5%).