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6 Gauge Wires

In stock

Bare Copper Wire 6AWG 600VAC 500 Feet

  • Conductor MaterialCopper
  • Gauge (AWG)6 AWG
  • Voltage Rating600 VAC

Pickup on Wed, Sep 3 from Orlando, FL

In stock

PV Wire 6AWG 600VAC 500 Feet Black

  • Conductor MaterialCopper
  • Gauge (AWG)6 AWG
  • InsulationTHHN
  • Voltage Rating600 VAC

Pickup on Wed, Sep 3 from Orlando, FL

Delivery on Sep 08–11

In stock

PV Wire 6AWG 600VAC 500 Feet White

  • Conductor MaterialCopper
  • Gauge (AWG)6 AWG
  • InsulationTHHN
  • Voltage Rating600 VAC

Pickup on Wed, Sep 3 from Orlando, FL

Delivery on Sep 08–11

In stock

PV Wire 6AWG 600VAC 500 Feet Green

  • Conductor MaterialCopper
  • Gauge (AWG)6 AWG
  • InsulationTHHN
  • Voltage Rating600 VAC

Pickup on Wed, Sep 3 from Orlando, FL

Delivery on Sep 08–11

In stock

PV Wire 6AWG 600VAC 500 Feet Red

  • Conductor MaterialCopper
  • Gauge (AWG)6 AWG
  • InsulationTHHN
  • Voltage Rating600 VAC

Pickup on Wed, Sep 3 from Orlando, FL

Delivery on Sep 08–11

  • Overview
  • Articles

6 Gauge Wire For Sale

Key Point: Choosing the correct wire size is essential for both safety and efficiency in electrical and solar installations. 6 gauge wire (6 AWG) is one of the most versatile and widely used conductors, balancing current-carrying capacity with manageable size and cost.

Homeowners, electricians, and contractors frequently rely on 6 AWG wire for heavy-duty appliances, solar PV systems, and 240V circuits.

What is 6 Gauge Wire?

6 AWG wire is a conductor defined by the American Wire Gauge system, measuring larger and thicker than 8 or 10 AWG wires. It is commonly used in circuits requiring higher current capacity, such as ranges, water heaters, EV chargers, and solar connections. Because of its thickness, 6 gauge wire reduces resistance and voltage drop over longer runs compared to smaller gauge wires.

What is the Diameter of 6 AWG Wire?

The diameter of 6 AWG wire depends on whether it is copper or aluminum. Copper is denser and carries current more efficiently, while aluminum is lighter and more cost-effective.

MaterialDiameter (inches)Diameter (mm)Resistance per 1000 ft
Copper0.162 in4.11 mm~0.395 ohms
Aluminum0.162 in4.11 mm~0.628 ohms

🔧 Technical Note: This means copper wire delivers less energy loss, which is crucial for solar PV and long residential runs.

How Many Amps Can 6 Gauge Wire Handle?

The ampacity of 6 gauge wire varies depending on insulation type and installation conditions. Under typical conditions:

  • Copper 6 AWG THHN: 55–65 amps
  • Aluminum 6 AWG: 40–55 amps

The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires derating for temperature, conduit fill, or long distances. For most residential and light commercial uses, 6 AWG copper supports 55 amps safely, while aluminum requires more conservative load planning.

Is 6 AWG Wire Suitable for 240V Circuits?

Yes. 6 AWG wire is frequently installed for 240V applications such as electric stoves, water heaters, HVAC units, hot tubs, and EV chargers. Because these appliances draw significant power, 6 AWG provides the capacity and safety margin needed.

NEC guidelines confirm that 6 AWG copper is sufficient for 50-amp to 60-amp 240V circuits, while aluminum may need upsizing.

Copper vs Aluminum – Which 6 Gauge Wire Should You Choose?

🟡 Copper Advantages:

  • Higher conductivity
  • Lower resistance
  • Longer lifespan
  • Easier terminations

Aluminum Advantages:

  • Lower cost per foot
  • Lighter weight
  • Requires careful termination with anti-oxidation compound
  • Requires proper torqueing

For critical loads like solar PV inverters or EV chargers, copper is preferred. For budget-conscious large feeder runs, aluminum may be chosen.

Stranded vs Solid 6 AWG Wire

What's the difference between stranded and solid 6 AWG wire?

Stranded wire consists of many small conductors twisted together, while solid wire is a single thick conductor.

  • Stranded 6 AWG: More flexible, ideal for solar arrays, battery connections, and EV installations
  • Solid 6 AWG: Rigid, suitable for fixed runs in conduit or walls

Most installers prefer stranded for ease of pulling and bending during installation.

Common Uses for 6 Gauge Wire

6 AWG is a workhorse wire size across residential, commercial, and solar projects:

🏠 Residential:

  • Ovens
  • Electric dryers
  • Subpanels
  • Water heaters

🏢 Commercial:

  • HVAC units
  • Lighting circuits
  • Heavy-duty outlets

🔋 Solar/EV:

  • Inverter connections
  • Battery banks
  • EV chargers

How Much Does 6 AWG Wire Cost Per Foot?

The price varies depending on material, insulation type, and length of spool:

  • Copper 6 AWG THHN: ~$1.50–$2.50 per foot
  • Aluminum 6 AWG: ~$0.70–$1.20 per foot

Longer spools (500–1000 ft) reduce per-foot costs significantly. Specialty insulation, such as PV wire or XHHW, may also increase the price.

How Does 6 Gauge Wire Compare to 8 or 10 Gauge Wire?

6 gauge wire provides substantially more ampacity and lower resistance compared to 8 or 10 AWG.

Wire SizeAmpacity (Copper, THHN)Diameter (inches)Typical Uses
6 AWG55–65 amps0.162 inStoves, EV chargers, subpanels
8 AWG40–55 amps0.128 inAir conditioners, smaller appliances
10 AWG30 amps0.101 inWater heaters, small branch circuits

Expert Tips for Choosing the Right 6 AWG Wire

When selecting 6 AWG wire, always check NEC tables for ampacity under your specific conditions, and account for voltage drop if the run exceeds 100 feet. For outdoor or solar use, choose PV-rated insulation. Copper should be the default for safety-critical applications, while aluminum is acceptable only when properly terminated.

Need Help with Your Electrical Project?

Get professional guidance on wire selection and installation from certified electricians. Ensure your project meets all safety codes and standards.

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