Forum Discussion

starcraft69's avatar
starcraft69
Explorer
May 15, 2020

Electric new install

I am putting in all new 12v and 120v electric in a van. Quick question should i use two or three strand 120v wire for plugs? putting in a WFCO 8700 series power center.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Two wire + Ground for 120 volt though 14GA is specified for a 15 AMP CIRCUIT (dang caps lock keeps coming on) I'd use 12.. (Firm believer in overkill).
  • Typically standard NM-B cable is used (often called "Romex", although Romex is actually a brand and they make other kinds of wire as well). You'd use 14/2 + G (two 14 gauge conductors with an additional safety ground) for 15A circuits, and 12/2 + G for 20A circuits, of course with appropriately sized breakers in the power center.

    Note that NM-B cable is not for use where it's exposed to the weather, or where it would be flexed in use (such as leading to a slide-out). 120V runs underneath the floor, if any, should be of a wire type that's rated for wet locations and properly protected from physical damage in conduit or something similar. Usually in RVs 120V wire is not generally run under the floor at all. Other types of wiring could also be acceptable, if less common, as laid out in the National Electric Code.

    The 120V section of the power center is wired like a subpanel in a house, with the neutral and ground kept separate, and the ground should be bonded to the chassis of the van.
  • Depends on what 120v things you will be running. The latest RVs use those 15/20 receptacles with 12 gauge wire for any 20 amp things. 20 amp breakers to match.

    Why a WFCO 8700?? Something you already have handy?

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,189 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 21, 2025