Mini split wire gauge 14ga vs 16ga

[branimal]

I'm installing mini splits where the lineset lengths exceed the stock lengths sold by the condenser manufacturer. I'm buying the communication wire from Supplyhouse in 250ft rolls. Some of my runs are 50' & some ~75'.

Should I go with 14ga or will 16ga suffice?

 

[RPH]

Communication only, no power for unit 16 gauge will work. A lot oc comm wires were 18-22 gauge depending on the system.

 

[pcmeiners]

"Communication only, no power for unit 16 gauge will work."

Communications only as in thermostat wire, as RPH states.

No such thing as communication only in a 4 wire cable, modern minisplits run power through a pair, #14/4 is required by most manufacturers/ code.

 

[chinboys]

I would use the rated guage wire based on the current draw and the voltage drop based on the distance from the condenser base to that of the evaporator.
Yes, one start/run line, a ground line, and two hot 120 v Ac lines are used.

 

[N_Jay]

My factory 25 and 50 foot cables were 14.

 

[branimal]

"Communication only, no power for unit 16 gauge will work."

Communications only as in thermostat wire, as RPH states.

No such thing as communication only in a 4 wire cable, modern minisplits run power through a pair, #14/4 is required by most manufacturers/ code.

I ordered one of the IDU's with a power cable, lineset, etc. For the rest of the IDUs my plan was to buy the "extras" from the local HVAC store.

It looks like Senville sent me a 16awg. Though they sell "Wiring Harness (14-3)" as part of their kits. So I'm a bit confused all around.

Pic of my wiring harness attached.

In any case, I'll probably just get 14-4 wire. Yeah it's gonna cost more, but I'm starting to appreciate my time on this earth is limited.