Tables › Torque Specs
Torque Specifications Field Reference
Common torque values for electrical terminations. Always verify with the manufacturer's marking on the lug.
Mechanical Set-Screw Connectors
| Wire Size Range | Torque (in-lbs) |
|---|---|
| 14 - 10 AWG | 20 in-lbs |
| 8 - 6 AWG | 25 in-lbs |
| 4 - 2 AWG | 35 in-lbs |
| 1 AWG - 2/0 | 45 in-lbs |
| 3/0 - 4/0 | 55 in-lbs |
| 250 - 350 kcmil | 65 in-lbs |
| 400 - 500 kcmil | 75 in-lbs |
| 600 - 750 kcmil | 85 in-lbs |
| 800 - 1000 kcmil | 100 in-lbs |
Breaker & Panelboard Lugs
| Connection Type | Wire Size Range | Torque (in-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 15/20A branch breaker | 14 - 10 AWG | 20 in-lbs |
| 30A branch breaker | 10 - 8 AWG | 25 in-lbs |
| 40 - 60A breaker | 8 - 4 AWG | 35 in-lbs |
| 100A breaker | 4 AWG - 1/0 | 45 in-lbs |
| 200A main lug | 2/0 - 4/0 | 55 - 65 in-lbs |
| Ground/neutral bar | 14 - 10 AWG | 20 in-lbs |
| Ground/neutral bar | 8 - 4 AWG | 25 - 35 in-lbs |
Device Terminals
| Device Type | Wire Size | Torque (in-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard receptacle (15/20A) | 14 - 12 AWG | 12 in-lbs |
| Commercial/spec-grade receptacle | 14 - 10 AWG | 14 - 17 in-lbs |
| Standard switch | 14 - 12 AWG | 12 in-lbs |
| GFCI receptacle | 14 - 10 AWG | 14 in-lbs |
| Wire nut (twist-on) | Per manufacturer | N/A — hand-tight |
Critical
Always check the manufacturer's torque specification printed on or shipped with the lug, connector, or device. The values above are common industry ranges — your specific hardware may differ. NEC 110.14(D) requires electrical connections to be torqued per manufacturer's instructions.
Always check the manufacturer's torque specification printed on or shipped with the lug, connector, or device. The values above are common industry ranges — your specific hardware may differ. NEC 110.14(D) requires electrical connections to be torqued per manufacturer's instructions.
Inspectors Are Checking
Torque marking requirements have expanded significantly in recent NEC cycles. Carry a calibrated torque wrench (in-lbs) and a torque screwdriver on every job. Mark each connection after torquing.
Torque marking requirements have expanded significantly in recent NEC cycles. Carry a calibrated torque wrench (in-lbs) and a torque screwdriver on every job. Mark each connection after torquing.
Torque Wrench Tips
Use an insulated torque wrench rated for electrical work. Re-torque is not required unless the manufacturer specifies it. Over-torquing can damage the conductor or connector — more is not better.
Use an insulated torque wrench rated for electrical work. Re-torque is not required unless the manufacturer specifies it. Over-torquing can damage the conductor or connector — more is not better.
For reference only. Verify all results with the current NEC and local amendments. See Terms of Use.