What Size Wire to Use Feed Under Cabinet Lights

When choosing the correct wire size for under-cabinet lights, several factors need to be considered, including the total wattage of the lights, the length of the wire run, and the voltage of the power supply.

To calculate the total wattage of the lights, add the wattage of each individual light. For example, if you have ten 1-watt LED lights, the total wattage would be 10 watts.

Next, determine the length of the wire run. This is the distance from the power source to the farthest light.

Finally, you need to know the voltage of the power supply. Most under-cabinet lights operate on 12 volts or 24 volts.

Once you have this information, you can use the following table to determine the correct wire size:

| Total Wattage | Wire Size (AWG) |

|---|---|

| Up to 18 watts | 18 AWG |

| 19-36 watts | 16 AWG |

| 37-72 watts | 14 AWG |

| 73-144 watts | 12 AWG |

| 145-288 watts | 10 AWG |

For example, if you have ten 1-watt LED lights with a total wattage of 10 watts and a wire run of 15 feet, you would need to use 18 AWG wire.

It's important to note that these are just general guidelines. If you are not sure what size wire to use, it's best to consult with an electrician.