Wire Sizing

Wire Size for Barn — 60 Amp 150 Feet

Pre-calculated NEC-compliant wire size for 60 amps at 150 feet on a 240V single-phase circuit. Immediate answer below.

Recommended Wire Size

Copper
4 AWG
Voltage drop: 2.31% (5.54V)
Voltage at load: 234.5V
Controlling factor: Voltage Drop (3% limit)
Aluminum
2 AWG
Voltage drop: 2.39% (5.74V)
Voltage at load: 234.3V
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 AWG15A56.52V23.55%183.5V
12 AWG20A35.64V14.85%204.4V
10 AWG30A22.32V9.3%217.7V
8 AWG50A14V5.84%226V
6 AWG65A8.84V3.68%231.2V
4 AWGREC85A5.54V2.31%234.5V
3 AWG100A4.41V1.84%235.6V
2 AWG115A3.49V1.46%236.5V
1 AWG130A2.77V1.16%237.2V
1/0 AWG150A2.2V0.92%237.8V
2/0 AWG175A1.74V0.73%238.3V
3/0 AWG200A1.38V0.57%238.6V
4/0 AWG230A1.09V0.46%238.9V
250 kcmil255A0.93V0.39%239.1V
300 kcmil285A0.77V0.32%239.2V
350 kcmil310A0.66V0.28%239.3V
400 kcmil335A0.58V0.24%239.4V
500 kcmil380A0.46V0.19%239.5V

Table shows all standard AWG/kcmil sizes for 60A at 150 ft on 240V (copper). Green check = meets both ampacity and 3% voltage drop. REC = smallest compliant size.

Key Considerations

For a 60A 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 60 amp service at 150 feet?
For a 60A/240V circuit at 150 feet, use 4 AWG copper (2.31% drop) or 2 AWG aluminum. This keeps voltage drop within the NEC-recommended 3% limit.
Can I use aluminum wire for a 60 amp circuit?
Yes. Aluminum wire is a cost-effective alternative for larger circuits. For 60A at 150 feet, use 2 AWG aluminum (2.39% 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 60A 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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