A 16 AWG fixture wire up to how many feet is protected by a 20-amp overcurrent device?

The appropriate choice of 100 feet for a 16 AWG fixture wire protected by a 20-amp overcurrent device is based on the National Electrical Code (NEC) and its guidelines regarding conductor sizing and protection.

When determining the maximum allowable length of a specific gauge wire under the protection of a certain current rating, safety and conductor capacity are critical factors. A 16 AWG wire is rated for a certain amount of current, and when using a 20-amp overcurrent protection device, it is crucial that the wire remains within safe operating conditions to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.

For 16 AWG wire, the maximum length that can effectively be protected by a 20-amp breaker, while ensuring that the wire does not exceed its rated ampacity, is indeed 100 feet. At this length, the risk of voltage drop and overheating is mitigated, assuming typical conditions in a residential or commercial installation. If the length were to exceed this limit, the wire could potentially experience excessive current flow that the overcurrent device cannot effectively protect against.

In installations, adhering to these standards ensures safety, efficiency, and compliance with electrical codes. This makes 100 feet the upper limit for a 16 AWG wire when connected