What are the two standard gauges for thermostat wire?

Thermostat wire is typically available in various gauges, and the standard gauges commonly used are 18 and 16 AWG (American Wire Gauge). These gauges are appropriate for the low-voltage applications commonly found in thermostat wiring for heating and cooling systems.

Using 18 AWG wire is suitable for typical thermostat connections because it balances sufficient current-carrying capacity while maintaining flexibility and ease of installation in residential and commercial systems.

The 16 AWG wire may be used for more demanding applications or longer wire runs, where lower resistance is beneficial. This helps minimize voltage drop, which can ensure that the thermostat operates correctly over the distance it needs to cover. The combination of these gauges fits well within the requirements for most heating and cooling control systems, leading to efficient operation without overheating or overloading.

In contrast, the other gauge options provided either exceed the typical requirements for thermostat wire or are not standard for these applications.