Solar Wire Size Calculator

Standard *

Current type *

Voltage *

Load1 *

Line length *

Max voltage drop *

Method of installation *

Ambient temperature *

Conductor *

Insulation *

Circuits in the same conduit *

Load increase *

Maximum allowable wire size *

Derating factor for parallel cables (present or no present) *

Allow smaller sections of 1.5 mm² *

Description

Find the right wire size for solar inverters, home circuits & more. Supports DC/AC, voltage drop, IEC 60364. Free tool for engineers & DIYers.

What size wire for a 2000W inverter? Can I use 10 AWG for my solar panels? Get the correct cable size based on load, voltage, distance, and allowable voltage drop — compliant with IEC 60364-5-52.

How It Works

This tool calculates the minimum conductor cross-sectional area (mm²) according to IEC 60364-5-52, considering:

System type: DC, single-phase or three-phase AC
Voltage, load power, and power factor
Cable length and max allowed voltage drop (typically 3%)
Ambient temperature, insulation type (PVC/XLPE), and installation method
Grouping derating and parallel conductors

Designed for electrical engineers, solar installers, and students who need fast, code-compliant cable sizing.

Common Questions

What size wire for a 2000W inverter?

For a 12V system over 10ft with 3% voltage drop, you need at least 2/0 AWG (70 mm²) copper cable.

Can I use 10 AWG for my solar panels?

Yes — if your array current is under 30A and the distance is less than 50ft (15m) at 48V.

How to calculate DC cable size with voltage drop?

Enter your DC voltage, load power, one-way distance, and max % drop. The tool applies IEC derating and returns the minimum mm².

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Power Loss in Cables Calculator – Instant I²R Loss Tool

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Power losses in cables