A technician needs to run thermostat wire 75 feet. To avoid a voltage drop, which gauge should the technician use?

The choice of using #16 AWG wire for running thermostat wire over a distance of 75 feet is appropriate due to the reduced resistance and minimized voltage drop associated with a thicker conductor. In low voltage applications, such as thermostat wiring, minimizing voltage drop is crucial to ensure proper functionality of the thermostat and connected system.

As the gauge number decreases, the wire diameter and current-carrying capacity increase. Therefore, #16 AWG is thicker than #18, #20, and #22 AWG options, making it better suited for longer runs where voltage drop could be significant. The thicker wire allows for more efficient transmission of the electrical signal with less energy loss over the distance.

Selecting a thinner wire, such as #18, #20, or #22 AWG, could lead to a higher resistance and a greater likelihood of voltage drop, which can impair the performance of the thermostat and the overall heating or cooling system it controls. This consideration highlights the importance of choosing the correct wire gauge for the application and length to ensure optimal operation.