what is the difference between Romex 12-2 with ground vs. 12-3 with ground

[edprush]

does the "2" and "3" mean the number of wires?

 

[Antisocial Virge]

yeap

 

[edprush]

what is the 3rd wire for?

 

[Whoozyerdaddy]

Kind of... A 12/2 has three conductors. A 12/3 has four.

 

[FoBoT]

Originally posted by: edprush
what is the 3rd wire for?

fans or multi-switch lights?

 

[Whoozyerdaddy]

Originally posted by: FoBoT

Originally posted by: edprush
what is the 3rd wire for?

fans or multi-switch lights?

Yup

 

[edprush]

Basically, I want have a few 220volt capacity outlets in my shop so I called an electrician. He said I could buy some "12 guage with ground Romex" and he would wire it for me.

I just don't know if i should get the 2 or 3 wire?

 

[FoBoT]

see that \/

 

[ijester]

For 220v you need the 12-3nmb with ground.

220v needs two hot wires and a neutral.

 

[jupiter57]

Originally posted by: ijester
For 220v you need the 12-3nmb with ground.

220v needs two hot wires and a neutral.

220 needs 2 hot wires and an insulated neutral, PLUS a seperate ground.

 

[ijester]

uh, that is what 12-3nmb with ground is....

And you don't NEED the ground to get 220. Just for code compliance and safety.

 

[edprush]

Is the brand Cerro Wire okay to use? I was at Lowes and they didn't have Romex.

 

[Vette73]

Originally posted by: edprush
Is the brand Cerro Wire okay to use? I was at Lowes and they didn't have Romex.

As long as it is copper and has the protected sleave on it then yea.

 

[Rastus]

Just cut the ground wire out. Everybody does it.

 

[ijester]

Just make sure it is labeled '12/3 nmb' and you will be fine.