Minimal Wire guage for wiring T5 fixture

[Spine-E]

Hello Everyone,
I am building a canopy for my T5 bulbs(4x48'' 54w HO). I am using 2 IC430's to drive the bulbs and I want to mount the ballast about 10ft away from the tank. Is there a minimal wire guage size when you are mounting a ballast remotely. I found some 8/18 guage wire at the hardware store and this would be the easiest to install using one single wire. They also carry 4/16guage wich one would be better to use.

 

[BeanAnimal]

Conductor size is not the problem. The #18 wire should be fine for the current that will be pushed over it. The question is one of voltage. You need to make sure that the wire is rated at a minimum of 600V

Fluorescent bulbs operate at higher voltages. The actual voltage varies between ballast and bulb type, but 240V-400V is not uncommon.

 

[DarG]

Agreed, and it's not hard to find 600 V rated wire locally. I've purchased it at Home Depot. They carry it in different colors, 600 Volt rated, solid and stranded in 12 - 18 guage. The wire you mention would be fine if it is 600V rated. If not, you can always use a piece of flexible conduit to run several individual wires to keep things neat. 300 Volt is very common as well so check before you buy.