Originally Posted By: kmcmahon This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I’ll be honest. As a non-electrician, I at times have difficulty judging conductor sizes.
With the exception of reading the information on the insulation (which about 90% of the time is unreadable), what do you use to determine size of wires?
Or for those that are prolific, what did you use as an aid before you got good at it?
Originally Posted By: rharrington This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Kevin,
I purchased a few gauges made from non conductive material from Professional Equipment online. They were a total of about $30. In the panel I ALWAYS use a gloved hand with the other behind my back if I need to check there.... but that is very seldom.
The ends are open so that the gauge can be put on the wire without removing it.
Originally Posted By: jmyers This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Kevin,
You could try taking some pieces of wire with you to the inspection, ranging from #14 to #2, that would take care of most of your needs! Doesn't really matter whether it would be copper or aluminum, both materials would be the same size physically, just different ratings.
Originally Posted By: roconnor This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
rharrington wrote:
I ALWAYS use a gloved hand with the other behind my back if I need to check there....
Good advice in general, assuming one knows what they are doing. If an HI is the least bit unsure of what they are doing and don't have any training with electrical systems/safety, then bail to a sparky anyway as a "concern" if you suspect undersized wires and there are no markings (observe and report) ... 
jmyers wrote:
You could try taking some pieces of wire with you to the inspection, ranging from #14 to #2, that would take care of most of your needs!
Might be good for education purposes, but don't put those wires any where near a live panel for comparison (ya might be tempted to do that if ya bring them along).
I would just buy a set of plastic gages since they are not a ton of cash ... 
-- Robert O'Connor, PE
Eagle Engineering ?
Eagle Eye Inspections ?
NACHI Education Committee
I am absolutely amazed sometimes by how much thought goes into doing things wrong
Originally Posted By: kmcmahon This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
rharrington wrote:
Kevin,
I purchased a few gauges made from non conductive material from Professional Equipment online. They were a total of about $30. In the panel I ALWAYS use a gloved hand with the other behind my back if I need to check there.... but that is very seldom.
The ends are open so that the gauge can be put on the wire without removing it.
That's what I was looking for...they are sorta proud of them for plastic huh? but I guess if you need em, they are worth it. Thanks.
I know the question was asked on here awile back but no one knew of any guages at that time.