This designation commonly refers to a type of electrical wire sold at a major home improvement retailer. The numbers represent the wire’s gauge and the number of current-carrying conductors within the cable. Specifically, “12/3” signifies a 12-gauge wire containing three insulated conductors, plus a bare ground wire, all sheathed in a protective outer jacket. Such a cable is frequently employed in residential wiring for 20-amp circuits, powering outlets, lighting, and certain appliances.
Its utility stems from its ability to safely handle a substantial electrical load within a home’s infrastructure. The 12-gauge wire provides sufficient current-carrying capacity for standard circuits, preventing overheating and potential fire hazards. The inclusion of three conductors (typically black, red, and white) allows for both a hot leg, a neutral leg, and a separate circuit, enabling the operation of split receptacles and three way switches. A bare ground wire provides a path for fault current, further enhancing safety.
