Wiring and circuits
Voltage drop
Voltage drop is the loss of voltage along a wire as current flows through it. It grows with longer runs, higher current and thinner wire.
Southwire explains that as current flows through conductors, part of the system voltage is used up by conductor resistance. Length, load current, conductor size and material all matter. Longer runs and higher current raise the drop, and larger conductors and copper lower it.
Too much drop can dim lights and make motors run hot. Long runs to a detached garage or pool equipment need extra care. Pick wire gauge with length in mind. A licensed electrician sizes the wire. Compare voltage. See residential electrical services.
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Sources
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