The ampacity of 16 AWG copper wire at 90°C (194°F) is 18 Amps as per Table 310.15(B)(16) of NEC. 

Unlike other cables, the amperage for 16 AWG wire is not specified for 75°C and 60°C because smaller wire sizes like 16 AWG are more susceptible to overheating at lower currents than larger wires. Wires rated for 75°C and 60°C are typically used for lighting and receptacle circuits, and 16 AWG is typically not used for these applications in favor of larger sizes.

The amperage rating for 16 AWG aluminum wire is not specified in NEC, as using 16 AWG aluminum wire is not common except for some low-current applications.

The ampacity of 16 AWG SOOW cable is 13 amps. SOOW cords have lover ampacity due to being designed for flexible applications.

Common Applications of 16 AWG Wire

Low-Power Lighting

16 AWG wire is often used for low-power indoor and outdoor lighting installations, such as LED or low-voltage lighting systems. The key is for current demand to be minimal. Beyond functional lighting, 16 AWG wire is also suitable for decorative and accent lighting setups.

Extension Cords

Many light-duty extension cords are made with 16 AWG wire. They power small appliances, electronics, and household items with low amperage requirements.

Small Appliances

Some small household or office appliances with low power needs may use 16 AWG cords or internal wiring. This includes lamps, radios, or other devices that draw relatively low currents.

Speaker Wire

For short runs to connect speakers in a home theater or audio system, 16 AWG wire is often used. It can provide adequate performance for most home applications.

Automotive Applications

In automotive electrical systems, 16 AWG wire may be used for low-current circuits, such as interior lighting, car stereos, or other accessories.

Signal Wiring

In some cases, 16 AWG wire is used for signal wiring in applications where the primary requirement is not power transmission but the transmission of data or control signals.

Control Circuits

In industrial settings, 16 AWG wire is often found in control circuits for machinery and equipment. These applications typically require a reliable connection for transmitting control signals rather than high power, making 16 AWG an appropriate choice due to its balance of flexibility and durability.

Security Systems

Security equipment, including cameras, sensors, and alarms, may use 16 AWG wire for power supply and signal transmission. This gauge provides a good compromise between minimizing voltage drop over long distances and maintaining manageability for installation in tight spaces.

Thermostats

In HVAC systems, 16 AWG wire is commonly used for thermostat wiring. This application requires wires that can handle low-voltage signals effectively.

Common Types of 16 AWG Cables

• Speaker wire: 16 AWG is one of the most common sizes for home audio systems.
• Hookup wire: 16 AWG hookup wire is very common in control wiring, internal wiring of appliances, and even automotive wiring.
• TFFN Wire: Used in control panels, as an instrumentation cable, in appliance wiring, and in lighting fixtures.
• MTW Wire: used in machine tools, appliances, and control cabinets.
• Automotive wire: Used in vehicles for wiring lights, radios, and other electronic components. 
• Bare copper wire: 16 AWG solid bare copper wire is used for grounding and bonding.
• Thermocouple wire: 16 AWG is on the larger side of thermocouple wires, suitable for longer distance runs.
• High-temperature wire: 16 AWG is a popular type of cables for environments where standard insulation materials would degrade, melt, or catch fire.
• Alarm wire: This is the common choice for security systems and smoke detectors.
• Thermostat wire: Though less common than lighter sizes, 16 AWG thermostat wire suits some less standard thermostats.

All of the 16 AWG cables discussed above are available at NNC at great pricing.