Wire Sizing

Wire Size for Pool Pump — 20 Amp 150 Feet

Pre-calculated NEC-compliant wire size for 20 amps at 150 feet on a 240V single-phase circuit. Immediate answer below.

Recommended Wire Size

Copper
8 AWG
Voltage drop: 1.95% (4.67V)
Voltage at load: 235.3V
Controlling factor: Voltage Drop (3% limit)
Aluminum
6 AWG
Voltage drop: 2.02% (4.85V)
Voltage at load: 235.2V
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 AWG15A18.84V7.85%221.2V
12 AWG20A11.88V4.95%228.1V
10 AWG30A7.44V3.1%232.6V
8 AWGREC50A4.67V1.95%235.3V
6 AWG65A2.95V1.23%237.1V
4 AWG85A1.85V0.77%238.2V
3 AWG100A1.47V0.61%238.5V
2 AWG115A1.16V0.48%238.8V
1 AWG130A0.92V0.39%239.1V
1/0 AWG150A0.73V0.3%239.3V
2/0 AWG175A0.58V0.24%239.4V
3/0 AWG200A0.46V0.19%239.5V
4/0 AWG230A0.36V0.15%239.6V
250 kcmil255A0.31V0.13%239.7V
300 kcmil285A0.26V0.11%239.7V
350 kcmil310A0.22V0.09%239.8V
400 kcmil335A0.19V0.08%239.8V
500 kcmil380A0.15V0.06%239.8V

Table shows all standard AWG/kcmil sizes for 20A at 150 ft on 240V (copper). Green check = meets both ampacity and 3% voltage drop. REC = smallest compliant size.

Key Considerations

For a 20A 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 20 amp service at 150 feet?
For a 20A/240V circuit at 150 feet, use 8 AWG copper (1.95% drop) or 6 AWG aluminum. This keeps voltage drop within the NEC-recommended 3% limit.
Can I use aluminum wire for a 20 amp circuit?
Yes. Aluminum wire is a cost-effective alternative for larger circuits. For 20A at 150 feet, use 6 AWG aluminum (2.02% 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 20A 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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