Is 14 gauge speaker wire the same as 14 gauge house wire ? Can it carry the same amount of power safely ? I was thinking of using 14 gauge stranded speaker wire for all power needs to tracks.
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Yes. The gauge is the gauge, no matter the purpose. Insulation and application may vary the current carrying ability. I'd say unless you have REALLY long runs, 14 ga should be fine.
Just make sure it is all copper, not CCA.
I have noticed on my stereo speaker wire that had clear insulation, something seems to turn the copper wire inside green over time. I know that copper can get a green patina as it oxidizes, so this seems like a chemical reaction caused by the chemicals in the clear insulation. I prefer to use what is called marine or “boat wire” instead of automotive wire because the copper strands are pre-tinned, which not only is easier to solder, but the tinning seems to reduce oxidation. This kind of wire is a bit more expensive, but it’s cheaper than replacing the wire in a year or two because it corroded.
Bill in FtL
Right. Copper-clad aluminum susceptible to oxidation/ corrosion, as well as other maladies.
