Which wire is best for home wiring? There’s no singular answer to that question, as there are many different types of electrical wires and electrical cables used in homes. Made with a variety of materials and designed with different purposes in mind, there are numerous types of electrical wire used in residential buildings. If you’re curious about what type of electrical wire is used in homes and other types of properties, here’s a look at ten styles, the traits that set them apart, and their functions.
Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable (NM)
Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable (NM) is a type of electrical wire commonly used in residential wiring projects. It consists of insulated conductors encased in a plastic sheath, which makes it easy to work with during installation. Electricians often use NM cables for indoor applications, such as running wiring through walls, ceilings, and floors.
Underground Feeder Cable (UF)
Underground Feeder Cable (UF) is a kind of electrical wire designed for outdoor use, particularly for running electricity to outbuildings, lighting fixtures, and other structures located away from the main building. Unlike other electrical wiring types, UF cable is built to withstand moisture, direct soil contact, and harsh environmental conditions. This cable contains insulated conductors and a durable outer jacket that protects it from the elements, making it a reliable option for underground installations.
Metal-Clad Cable (MC)
Metal-Clad Cable (MC) is a type of electrical wire that features metal armor around the conductors, offering additional protection against physical damage. This makes MC cable ideal for use in commercial settings, as well as residential wiring projects where the wiring is exposed or subject to potential impacts.
The metal armor also acts as a grounding wire, providing an extra layer of safety. Electrical contractors often choose MC cables for applications that require higher durability and strength, such as service entrance cables or wiring in industrial environments.
Multi-Conductor Cable
Multi-Conductor Cable is a versatile electrical wire that contains multiple insulated conductors within a single jacket. This type of electrical wire is commonly used in control systems, audio setups, and other applications where multiple signals need to be transmitted simultaneously.
Multi-conductor cables are available in various configurations, depending on the number of conductors and the specific electrical requirements. This cable type is often used in branch circuits and can also be found in residential wiring for connecting devices such as thermostats and security systems.
Coaxial Cable
Coaxial Cable is a specialized type of electrical wire designed for transmitting high-frequency signals, such as those used in television and internet connections. This cable consists of a central conductor, usually made of stranded wire or solid copper, surrounded by insulation, a metallic shield, and an outer jacket.
Coaxial cables are commonly used in both residential and commercial installations, where they serve as ethernet cables, connecting modems, routers, and television sets. The unique design of coaxial cable helps minimize signal loss and interference, making it an ideal choice for applications that require high-quality signal transmission over long distances.
Direct-Burial Cable
Direct-Burial Cable is a robust variety of electrical wire engineered for underground installation without the need for additional conduit protection. This cable is commonly used in outdoor and residential wiring projects, where it connects outbuildings, landscape lighting, and other structures to the main electrical system. The cable’s durable construction, which often includes a waterproof sheath and insulation around each conductor, allows it to resist moisture, corrosion, and other environmental factors.
Single-Conductor Wire
Single-Conductor Wire is a basic type of electrical wire that consists of a single, insulated conductor. This wire is widely used in various electrical applications, including residential wiring, automotive systems, and electronic devices. Electricians often use single-conductor wire for simple circuits, such as connecting light fixtures, outlets, and switches to a branch circuit cable.
Ribbon Cable
Ribbon Cable is a flat, flexible electrical wire that consists of multiple conductors running parallel to each other within a single sheath. This cable is often used in electronic devices, computers, and telecommunications equipment, where space is limited and a compact wiring solution is needed.
Ribbon cables are commonly found inside computers, connecting internal components such as hard drives and motherboards. The flat design of ribbon cable allows for easy routing in tight spaces, making it an excellent choice for low-voltage wire applications.
Armored Cable (AC)
Armored Cable (AC) is a variety of electrical wire that features a protective metal sheath around the conductors, offering enhanced durability and protection against physical damage. This cable is frequently used in commercial and industrial settings, as well as in residential wiring applications where additional protection is required.
The metal sheath also serves as a grounding wire, providing an extra layer of safety by helping to prevent electrical shock. AC cable is often used for service entrance cables, connecting the electrical meter to the main breaker panel in a building.
Twisted Pair Cable
Twisted Pair Cable consists of two insulated conductors twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference. This cable is commonly used in telecommunications and networking applications, including ethernet cables for internet connections.
The twisted design of the conductors helps to cancel out interference from external sources, ensuring a stable signal transmission. Twisted pair cables are also used in some residential wiring projects, particularly in phone lines and speaker wire installations.
To Schedule a Wiring Service for Your Home, Call MorLite Electric Today
Whether you have a problem with a service entrance cable, bare copper wire, or ground wire, we’ll know what to do. The electricians at MorLite Electric offer wiring services, indoor and outdoor lighting, electrical installations, and more to clients across Newport News.
Give us a call today for further information and to schedule one of our services for the hot wires, neutral wires, or other electrical wires in your home or business!
