What Size Wire for an Electric Range?
Wire and breaker sizing for an Electric Range — the typical 240V circuit, plus the code details (NEC 310.16) that change the answer.
Calculations are built on the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) and cross-checked against the published code tables. How we verify. Last reviewed June 2026.
On a 50A 240V circuit (NEMA 14-50) at 75°C terminations. 60°C terminations: 6.
Protected by a 50A breaker (NEC 240.6).
Electric Range current varies by model. The size above is the common case — always size the conductor to the unit’s nameplate rating and protect it at the labeled maximum breaker/fuse.
GFCI required. The 2023 NEC (210.8(D) for specific appliances, 210.8(A) for kitchen/outdoor receptacles) requires GFCI protection here. Verify the code edition your jurisdiction has adopted.
Electric Range Circuit Details
- Size to the range nameplate. Ranges rated 8¾ kW and up typically use a 50A circuit (8 AWG copper at 75°C; 6 AWG for 60°C terminations or margin); smaller ranges can use 40A (8 AWG).
- NEC 210.19(A)(3) allows the branch circuit to be sized to the demand, not the nameplate sum.
- Modern installs require a 4-wire NEMA 14-50.
Long run to your electric range?
Over distance, voltage drop can require a larger wire than the table above. See the 50A wire size by distance:
Size it for your exact install
Open the calculator pre-filled with 50A at 240V to add distance, material and temperature.