Choosing the Right Wires for Electrical Wiring – Best Types for Outlets, Lighting, and Wooden Homes
When installing electrical wiring in a home, selecting the right type of wire is just as crucial as choosing durable plumbing materials. Poor-quality wires can lead to overheating, fire hazards, or premature failure, potentially requiring a full rewiring job or causing costly damage.
To avoid risks, let’s explore the best wire types for household wiring, including outlets, lighting, and safe installations in wooden homes.
1. Basic Requirements for Electrical Wiring
When selecting electrical wires, keep in mind the following key factors:
✔ Conductor Material – Copper or aluminum.
✔ Current Load Capacity – Wire gauge must handle the expected power load.
✔ Insulation Type – Should match the voltage and installation environment.
✔ Fire Resistance – Especially important for wooden houses.
Copper wires are preferred over aluminum due to better conductivity, durability, and corrosion resistance. In fact, most electrical codes recommend copper wiring for home installations.
2. Best Wire Types for Home Wiring
2.1 VVG Cable – Most Common Household Wire
Features:
- Copper conductor.
- PVC insulation.
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor wiring.
This versatile and widely used electrical cable is perfect for fixed installations, offering good durability and insulation. However, it is not armored, making it unsuitable for direct burial in the ground.
2.2 NYM Cable – European-Standard Alternative
Features:
- Similar to VVG but made to European DIN VDE standards.
- PVC insulation and outer sheathing.
- Often contains a rubber filling for extra protection.
Considerations: Some NYM cables may leak insulating material when overheated, depending on the manufacturer.
2.3 VVP and ShVVP – Flexible Flat Wires
Features:
- Two- and three-core variations.
- Placed flat instead of twisted conductors.
- ShVVP is a flexible cord (commonly used for power tools).
⚠ ShVVP is NOT recommended for permanent home wiring as it is designed for appliances, not fixed installations.
2.4 Fire-Resistant and Low-Smoke Cables (Optional)
Some cables have extra safety features:
- NG (Non-Flammable) – Resists fire spread in bundled cables.
- FR (Fire-Resistant) – Can function even if insulation is damaged.
- LS (Low Smoke) – Reduces toxic fumes in case of fire.
For standard home wiring, these extra fire-resistant cables are not necessary unless required by local electrical codes.
3. Best Wires for Outlets and Lighting
3.1 Wiring for Lighting
Lighting circuits have relatively low power consumption, meaning that:
✔ Wire size: 1.5 mm² (14 AWG) is sufficient.
✔ Wire type: Standard VVG, NYM, or equivalent.
✔ Circuit type: Two-wire system (phase + neutral) is common.
Even if you plan to install multiple fixtures, 1.5 mm² wires provide ample capacity while remaining flexible and easy to install.
3.2 Wiring for Power Outlets
Electrical outlets need thicker wires to handle higher power loads from appliances like:
- Lamps, TVs, computers
- Kettles, toasters, microwaves
- Electric space heaters
Standard outlet rating: 16A
Wire size: 2.5 mm² (12 AWG)
Recommended wire type: Three-core wire (live, neutral, ground)
⚠ Multiple outlets on one circuit?
If several outlets are wired in parallel, ensure the total power demand doesn’t exceed the wire’s capacity.
4. Safe Wiring for Wooden Houses
Wooden houses require special electrical safety measures due to high fire risks.
4.1 Open Wiring in Wooden Homes
✔ Best for rustic or vintage designs.
✔ Can be mounted on ceramic rollers or fire-resistant panels.
✔ Requires special insulated cables or conduits.
4.2 Concealed Wiring in Wooden Walls
✔ Safer than open wiring but requires protective conduits.
✔ Conductors must be placed inside non-flammable tubing (metal or PVC).
✔ Conductors must be fire-rated (NG, FR, or armored cables).
Tip: If possible, place electrical conduits within plastered walls or metal housings to reduce direct exposure to wood.
5. Electrical Wire Safety Tips
✔ Use Only Copper Wires – Better conductivity and longevity.
✔ Size Wires Correctly – Avoid overheating by using the right gauge.
✔ Always Install a Ground Wire – Three-wire circuits ensure safety.
✔ Follow Local Electrical Codes – Ensure compliance with fire and safety regulations.
✔ Never Use Flexible Cords (ShVVP) for Permanent Wiring – Only use approved building wires.
6. Choosing the Best Wire for Your Home Wiring
| Application | Recommended Wire | Wire Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lighting | VVG, NYM | 1.5 mm² (14 AWG) | Standard for LED, incandescent, or CFL bulbs |
| Power Outlets | VVG, NYM | 2.5 mm² (12 AWG) | Safe for 16A outlets |
| High-Power Appliances | VVG, NYM | 4 mm² (10 AWG) | For ovens, heaters, air conditioners |
| Wooden Home (Open Wiring) | VVG NG, NYM NG | 1.5 - 2.5 mm² | Must be mounted with fire-resistant spacers |
| Wooden Home (Concealed Wiring) | Armored cable (VBbShv) | 2.5 - 4 mm² | Must be installed inside metal conduit |
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Final Thoughts
When selecting electrical wires for your home, always consider:
- Current load requirements
- Conductor material (Copper > Aluminum)
- Insulation type and safety ratings
- Local electrical code compliance
If you’re unsure, consult a certified electrician to guarantee a safe and reliable installation.