What is the minimum gauge required for tracer wire?

The minimum gauge required for tracer wire is 14 AWG. This gauge is commonly specified to ensure the wire is durable enough to withstand various environmental conditions, including soil corrosiveness and physical abrasion. A wire of this gauge is also sufficient to carry the electrical signal needed for locating underground utilities without excessive resistance or voltage drop.

Using a gauge that is too thin, such as 16 AWG or 18 AWG, may lead to signals that are weak or potentially imperceptible to locating equipment, compromising the effectiveness of the tracer wire. At the same time, a thicker gauge like 12 AWG, while stronger, is often unnecessary for standard tracer applications and may not be as cost-effective as 14 AWG. In practice, 14 AWG strikes a good balance between durability and functionality for tracer purposes.