What Landscape Wire to Use for 20 Watts at 200 Feet?

What Landscape Wire to Use for 20 Watts at 200 Feet?

If you're powering a 20-watt landscape lighting fixture 200 feet from your transformer, selecting the right wire gauge ensures your lights shine bright and last long.

Recommended Wire Gauge

Use 12 AWG landscape wire for this setup. It keeps voltage drop manageable and supports the current safely over long distances.

Why 12 AWG Works

At 200 feet, 20 watts (~1.67 amps) through 12 AWG wire causes a voltage drop of approximately ~1.05V (8.7%). While this exceeds the ideal 5% guideline, it's still acceptable in low power systems like this one  especially when using high quality LED fixtures designed to handle slight fluctuations.

Voltage Drop Summary

  • Power: 20 watts
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Current: ~1.67 amps
  • Distance: 200 ft
  • Voltage drop on 12 AWG: ~1.05V (8.7%)

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Tips for Installation

  • Bury cable at least 6 inches deep
  • Use waterproof connectors
  • Avoid tight bends or damage to insulation
  • Label wire ends for easy troubleshooting in the future
  • Keep wire runs away from sharp rocks or edges that may cut the insulation

FAQs

Can I use 14 AWG instead?
It’s not recommended at this distance and load. Stick with 12 AWG to keep voltage drop under control.

What if I expand my system?
12 AWG already gives you excellent headroom. If you're adding significantly more fixtures, recalculate the total wattage to confirm, but 12 AWG will usually handle moderate expansion.

Is voltage drop really that important?
Yes too much drop can dim your lights and reduce lifespan. Even a slight excess above 5% in low-power setups like this is typically safe but worth monitoring.

Should I use solid or stranded wire?
Stranded wire is recommended for landscape lighting due to its flexibility and ease of installation around curves and obstacles.

Summary

Use 12 AWG for 20 watts at 200 feet. It's reliable, durable, and keeps your lights operating safely at long distances.

← See Wire Sizes for Other Wattages and Distances

Disclaimer: Calculations are based on standard conditions and estimates. Actual performance may vary depending on installation specifics, environment, and cable quality.