How do I fix excessive voltage drop?

Voltage Drop Calculator - NEC 3% Wire Gauge (AWG) Sizing

Calculate electrical voltage drop percentage, conductor resistance, and destination voltage for single-phase circuits according to NEC 3% wire sizing standards.

⚙️ Configuration & Inputs

Source Voltage

Circuit Load

Amps

One-Way Distance

Wire Size (AWG)

📊 Results & Analysis

Voltage Drop Percentage

4.82%

5.79 Volts Lost • 114.21 V at Device

Source Voltage	120.0 V
Voltage Lost to Resistance	5.79 V
End-of-Line Voltage	114.21 V
NEC 3% Recommendation	EXCEEDS 3% - Upsize Wire!

NEC National Electrical Code 3% Guideline

The National Electrical Code (NEC Article 210.19) recommends that maximum voltage drop on branch circuits should not exceed 3% (and 5% total including the feeder) to maintain motor efficiency and avoid equipment overheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Upsize the conductor to a thicker wire gauge (e.g. from 12 AWG to 10 AWG), which lowers electrical resistance per 1,000 feet.