What Landscape Wire to Use for 20 Watts at 240 Feet?

What Landscape Wire to Use for 20 Watts at 240 Feet?

If you're powering a 20-watt landscape lighting fixture 240 feet from your transformer, selecting the right wire size ensures reliable operation and proper brightness across your system.

Recommended Wire Gauge

For this setup, use 12 AWG landscape wire. It maintains performance and keeps voltage drop at a manageable level, even at this extended distance.

Why 12 AWG Works

At 240 feet, 20 watts (~1.67 amps) flowing through 12 AWG wire produces a voltage drop of about ~1.27V (10.6%). While this is above the ideal 5% range, it is still considered acceptable for low power lighting systems particularly when using quality LED fixtures that can handle modest voltage drop without noticeable dimming.

Voltage Drop Summary

  • Power: 20 watts
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Current: ~1.67 amps
  • Distance: 240 ft
  • Voltage drop on 12 AWG: ~1.27V (10.6%)

Buy 12 AWG Landscape Wire

Shop Now:

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 240 feet. It offers stable power delivery and is suitable for long wire runs in most residential landscape lighting setups.

← See Wire Sizes for Other Wattages and Distances

Disclaimer: Calculations are based on standard estimates. Real-world performance can vary due to environmental factors, cable quality, and installation practices.