The size of wire in a low-voltage lighting system primarily depends on which factor?

The size of wire in a low-voltage lighting system is primarily determined by the distance of the run and the amps required for the system. When planning electrical runs, particularly in low-voltage applications, it’s essential to ensure that the wire can handle the current without excessive voltage drop over the distance. If the wire is too small for the current load or the length of the run, it can lead to inefficient lighting and potential safety hazards.

As the distance increases, the resistance in the wire increases, which can lead to a reduction in voltage at the lighting fixtures, resulting in dim lighting or improper functioning of the fixtures. Therefore, calculating the appropriate wire gauge based on both the distance of the run and the total amperage needed for all the fixtures is critical to ensure optimal performance of the lighting system.

While the type of lighting fixtures, color of the wire, and weather conditions may play a role in other aspects of a lighting installation, they do not directly influence the wire size required for safely conducting the necessary electrical load.