Can this calculator be used for both DC and AC circuits?

Yes, the tool offers selections for DC, AC Single phase, and AC Three phase, applying the appropriate formula for each current type.

What units are accepted for wire length and diameter?

Wire length can be entered in feet or meters; wire diameter can be selected as AWG, inch, or mm depending on the wire type chosen.

How accurate are the voltage drop results?

The calculator provides estimates based on standard resistivity at 68°F; actual voltage drop may differ due to wire material variations, strand count, and operating temperature.

Does the calculator account for three-phase power systems?

Yes, there is a specific AC Three phase calculation formula included that uses the line-to-line voltage and square root of 3 multiplier.

ElectricalTool Review

Voltage drop calculator

Provided byRapidTablesrapidtables.com

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About this tool

What Voltage drop calculator does

The RapidTables voltage drop calculator determines the expected reduction in voltage across an electrical circuit. Users input wire type, diameter or AWG size, one-way length, current type (DC, single-phase, or three-phase), source voltage, and current draw to receive the voltage drop in volts and as a percentage of the supplied voltage. The output also includes the calculated wire resistance at 68°F, with notes that real-world results may vary based on material resistivity and strand count. This provides a practical estimate for ensuring equipment receives adequate voltage over a given wire run.

Step by step

How to use the RapidTables Voltage drop calculator

1
Select the wire type (Copper, Aluminum, etc.) and wire diameter or AWG size from the dropdown menus
2
Enter the one-way wire length using feet or meters and choose the current type (DC, AC Single phase, or AC Three phase)
3
Input the source voltage in volts and the load current in amps
4
View the calculated voltage drop in volts and percentage, plus the wire resistance value at 68°F

Is it right for you

Best for

Electricians, engineers, and DIY enthusiasts designing or inspecting electrical systems who need a quick, formula-based estimate of voltage drop to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Limitations

Results are estimates based on standard resistivity values and may vary with actual wire construction
Requires known current draw and wire specifications; not suitable for circuits with unknown loads
Temperature effects on resistance are noted but not adjustable in the basic calculation

Questions

Voltage drop calculator FAQ

Can this calculator be used for both DC and AC circuits?: Yes, the tool offers selections for DC, AC Single phase, and AC Three phase, applying the appropriate formula for each current type.
What units are accepted for wire length and diameter?: Wire length can be entered in feet or meters; wire diameter can be selected as AWG, inch, or mm depending on the wire type chosen.
How accurate are the voltage drop results?: The calculator provides estimates based on standard resistivity at 68°F; actual voltage drop may differ due to wire material variations, strand count, and operating temperature.
Does the calculator account for three-phase power systems?: Yes, there is a specific AC Three phase calculation formula included that uses the line-to-line voltage and square root of 3 multiplier.

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