Wire Sizing

What Size Wire for 100 Amp 150 Feet Away

Pre-calculated NEC-compliant wire size for 100 amps at 150 feet on a 240V single-phase circuit. Immediate answer below.

Recommended Wire Size

Copper
2 AWG
Voltage drop: 2.43% (5.82V)
Voltage at load: 234.2V
Controlling factor: Voltage Drop (3% limit)
Aluminum
1/0 AWG
Voltage drop: 2.51% (6.03V)
Voltage at load: 234V
Controlling factor: Voltage Drop (3% limit)

Based on NEC Table 310.16 (75°C column), single-phase, 240V, 3% max voltage drop, one-way distance 150 ft.

Wire Comparison Table

Wire SizeAmpacityV-Drop (V)V-Drop (%)V at LoadStatus
14 AWG15A94.2V39.25%145.8V
12 AWG20A59.4V24.75%180.6V
10 AWG30A37.2V15.5%202.8V
8 AWG50A23.34V9.73%216.7V
6 AWG65A14.73V6.14%225.3V
4 AWG85A9.24V3.85%230.8V
3 AWG100A7.35V3.06%232.7V
2 AWGREC115A5.82V2.43%234.2V
1 AWG130A4.62V1.93%235.4V
1/0 AWG150A3.66V1.53%236.3V
2/0 AWG175A2.9V1.21%237.1V
3/0 AWG200A2.3V0.96%237.7V
4/0 AWG230A1.82V0.76%238.2V
250 kcmil255A1.54V0.64%238.5V
300 kcmil285A1.29V0.54%238.7V
350 kcmil310A1.1V0.46%238.9V
400 kcmil335A0.96V0.4%239V
500 kcmil380A0.77V0.32%239.2V

Table shows all standard AWG/kcmil sizes for 100A at 150 ft on 240V (copper). Green check = meets both ampacity and 3% voltage drop. REC = smallest compliant size.

Key Considerations

For a 100A circuit at 150 feet on 240V, both ampacity and voltage drop must be satisfied. NEC recommends keeping the total voltage drop (feeder + branch) under 5%, with no more than 3% on either segment alone.

Copper conductors at 75°C column (THHN/THWN-2) are assumed. If using 60°C terminations, derate the ampacity to the 60°C column values. Verify the temperature rating of your terminals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size wire do I need for a 100 amp service at 150 feet?
For a 100A/240V circuit at 150 feet, use 2 AWG copper (2.43% drop) or 1/0 AWG aluminum. This keeps voltage drop within the NEC-recommended 3% limit.
Can I use aluminum wire for a 100 amp circuit?
Yes. Aluminum wire is a cost-effective alternative for larger circuits. For 100A at 150 feet, use 1/0 AWG aluminum (2.51% voltage drop). Aluminum requires AL-rated connectors and anti-oxidant compound at all terminations.
What happens if the voltage drop exceeds 3%?
Voltage drop above 3% reduces equipment efficiency, can cause motors to overheat, and may violate NEC 210.19(A) Informational Note No. 4. For a 100A circuit at 150 feet on 240V, exceeding 3% means the load receives less than 232.8V, which can damage sensitive electronics and shorten appliance lifespan.

Need a Custom Calculation?

Different voltage, three-phase, or custom max drop percentage? Use our interactive calculator.

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