Using the incorrect wire on a boat, yacht, or any marine setting can have much more noticeable consequences than in other situations. At best it means the equipment won’t function properly, and at worst it can cause a dangerous fire hazard. Faulty electrical wiring is responsible for more onboard fires than anything else, according to Boat U.S. These are some of the most common issues found with 10 awg wire and how to avoid them:
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Wear and Tear
Heavy duty environments can be particularly detrimental to electrical wire. Finding a 10 awg marine primary wire tinned with copper rather than any other kind of metal will do much to prevent this damage as copper is resistant to corrosion. Regular checks and maintenance of your wire will also ensure you don’t run into problems with it.
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Low Voltage
The smaller the cable is, the less amperage will pass through it and the lower the power output will be. If you have experienced this, switch to a wire with a higher amperage level which will be able to handle the higher voltage without overheating.
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Poor Installation
Even if the best quality equipment is used, poor installation or use of the wrong type of cable could have disastrous consequences. Regular wires or unprofessional installation won’t be enough. If you don’t feel qualified enough to install the cable yourself or are unsure if a 10 awg marine primary wire is the right kind for your boat, ask an expert or hire someone to install the electricals for you. It is a fair price to pay for safety on your boat.
So long as you ensure you are using the right type of cable, install it correctly, and check it regularly for wear and tear, you can be assured that a marine wire will work correctly and safely.
