How To Choose The Right Wire Size For Your Van's Electrical System

Choosing the right size wire for your van's electrical system is as easy as following a few simple steps. This video will cover selecting the right type of wire, how to reduce voltage drop, and will explain how to choose the right wire gauge for your circuits. Whether you are wiring a camper van, rv, or boat, this video is for you. Stay tuned for some valuable electrical tips at the end.
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[@tommyc1028]

Thanks for posting. Very helpful.

[@TheVanTeacher]

You’re welcome, glad it was helpful!

[@TyLeRtSb]

Whats your take on using 12AWG stranded for everything? (Except for inverter, solar, and other high amp/volt items) I found it was much much cheaper to buy one roll of 12AWG marine wire and the appropriate connectors than multiple gauges and connectors.

[@TheVanTeacher]

I think you’ll be fine with 12AWG for all of your circuits. You would probably be fine with 14-16 also. The only drawbacks I can think of when using oversized wire is the extra cost, weight and ease of installation. Cost and weight may be negligible. When I think of installation I think about running multiple fat wires through small openings and channels and trying to terminate large wire into small device terminals. If you end up squeezing several wires tightly together through a channel they could potentially heat up. Smaller gauge may reduce that issue. I also think about using lever nuts that may not have the range to accept both 12AWG from your fuse panel and very small wire (18-22) connected to devices like 1 watt LED puck lights. That said, I might go with 14-16AWG for a one size fits all approach. And like you said, not including higher amp devices.