What type of cable is commonly used for residential wiring?

Non-metallic sheathed cable, commonly known as NM cable, is the standard choice for residential wiring due to its versatility, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness. This type of cable typically consists of two or more insulated conductors and a ground wire, all encased in a plastic sheath. It is lightweight yet durable, making it ideal for use in various residential applications, including walls, ceilings, and floors.

NM cable is particularly favorable because it’s approved for use in dry locations, which encompasses most areas within a home. Furthermore, it allows for easier manipulation and routing through the framing of buildings, significantly speeding up the installation process. Because of these attributes, NM cable has become a standard in residential electrical installations.

In contrast, armored and metal-clad cables are generally heavier and often used in situations that require additional protection from physical damage, typically found in more commercial or industrial applications. Twisted pair cable is mainly associated with telecommunications and networking rather than general residential wiring, thus making it less suitable for electrical installations within homes.