Safe Electrical Wiring for Light Fixtures

Checking The Current Rating of Electrical Wires for Light Fixtures

• The previous owner removed the old fixture.
• My house is 38 years old, and I’m wondering if my supply wires can handle the current that the light fixture will need.
• I found the following printed on one of the wires of the light fixture: “18AWGX2C 105(degree symbol)C 300V”.
• From what I understand, this means the supply wires need to be rated for 105 degrees.
• There is nothing printed on the supply wires to indicate a rating.
• Do you think it would be dangerous to install this light fixture?

Thanks!

This electrical question came from: Matt, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

See more about Local Electrical Wiring in Pennsylvania

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Matt

The Current Rating of Electrical Wires for Light Fixtures

• If the home electrical wiring is original then the circuit wiring should be fine and rated for 15 amps minimum. this can be verified by identifying the circuit that the light fixture will be installed on and check the circuit or fuse rating, which should be either 15 or 20 amps, as installed.
• Because the light fixture has 18 gauge AWG wire this would indicate that the wire size is smaller and the amperage of the light fixture will be under 15 amps.
• To find out what the exact electrical load of the light fixture simply make a list of the number of light bulbs and the watts of the bulbs, perform the math and you will have the total number of watts for your chandelier fixture.
• Most of the popular brand name light fixtures will have a UL Approved listing or label which will indicate that the light fixture and all of its components, light sockets and wiring have been tested to be safe for the specific application and installation.

The Following links will assist you with your Light Fixture Wiring

Guide to Home Electrical Wire

• Electrical Wire for the Home

• Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.
• How to Install Kitchen Electrical Wiring

• Kitchen Electrical Wiring

• Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Kitchen Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
• Lighting For The Home
• Lighting Electrical Codes