What Size Wire for a 60 Amp Breaker?
A 60 A breaker needs 4 AWG copper in NM-B cable (“Romex”), or 6 AWG copper in conduit with 75°C terminations. NEC 334.80 caps NM cable at the 60°C column, which is why the two differ: most homes are cable, so 4 AWG is the safe default.
Minimum wire size for 60 amps
| Application | Copper | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|
| NM-B cable / “Romex” (334.80, 60°C) | 4 AWG | not typical |
| Conduit / SER, 75°C terminations (310.16) | 6 AWG | 4 AWG |
The NM-B row applies the 60°C column per NEC 334.80; the conduit row assumes 75°C-rated terminations (NEC 110.14(C)). Both assume no more than three current-carrying conductors in a raceway at 30°C ambient. Derating, continuous loads, and local amendments can change the answer: confirm with a licensed electrician.
Ground wire for 60 amps
| Ground | Copper | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment ground (bare / green) (Table 250.122) | 10 AWG | 8 AWG |
The equipment ground is sized by the breaker, not the load: a 60A breaker falls in Table 250.122's 60 A row. Upsize the hots for voltage drop and the ground must grow in proportion (NEC 250.122(B)). Every size, with a worked upsizing example, is in the ground wire size chart.
How far can you run it? (voltage drop)
Keeping voltage drop under the recommended 3% at a 48 A load (80% of the breaker), 4 AWG copper is good for roughly:
| System voltage | Max one-way run (4 AWG Cu) |
|---|---|
| 120 V | ≈ 121 ft |
| 240 V | ≈ 242 ft |
Past these distances, step up one gauge. Run your exact length and load through the voltage drop calculator.
What runs on 60 amps
- 48 A EV charger (hardwired)
- Subpanel feeder
- Electric furnace circuits
Parts for a 60 A circuit
Before touching a 60 A circuit, confirm it is dead with a voltage pen; a clamp meter reads the real load on one of its conductors.
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Non-contact voltage tester
Klein Tools NCVT-3P
Best for: Confirming a circuit is dead before you open a device or box
Clamp meter
Fluke 323
Best for: Measuring what a hardwired circuit actually draws, even in a crowded panel
Frequently asked questions
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