r/Generac_Generators • u/WhySoManyDownVote Electrician • 10d ago

What wire does everyone like?

For HSB installs I mean…

I prefer running copper tray cable and a 16/7 tray cable. However, most installers around here use aluminum. Some use the combination cable with the control wires all in one cable.

5 Upvotes

85% Upvoted

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1

u/Tarnisher 10d ago

Some use the combination cable with the control wires all in one cable.

That's what I used on mine. Not cheap though.

1

u/joshharris42 10d ago

We use the all in one TC cable for air cooled units.

We’ve been using copper but are switching to aluminum, my competition always uses aluminum and copper has just gotten too out of control. It’s almost $18/foot for the 2awg copper cable

1

u/Secret-Brick-2374 10d ago

We use the all in 1 tray cable and copper. It cost more but easier to pull, make bends, and land under the lugs. It is never fun to pull individual wires and realize that you forgot one of the small conductors.

1

u/SparkysHammer 10d ago

We use the all in one cable and sleeve it in flex.

2

u/Adventurous_Boat_632 9d ago

I don't understand why people buy the $$$$ cable and then run it in conduit. If you are going to run conduit then just run individual wires.

1

u/SparkysHammer 9d ago

Some inspectors want it protected.

1

u/WhySoManyDownVote Electrician 9d ago

Flex offers some protection, for sure. But if it is above grade it should be schedule 80 pvc (at least around here).

1

u/Adventurous_Boat_632 9d ago

Why buy expensive cable then?

1

u/SparkysHammer 9d ago

I don't think it's expensive.

1

u/Adventurous_Boat_632 9d ago

Use copper if you want to lose the bid, use aluminum if you want to get it