In residential installations, which type of conductor is typically used for short runs in walls?

In residential installations, solid copper conductors are commonly used for short runs in walls due to their excellent conductivity and reliability. Solid conductors consist of a single, solid piece of copper wire, which provides lower resistance and higher durability for shorter distances. This makes them particularly suitable for applications where space is limited, such as within walls.

Solid copper wire is strong and less flexible, which is advantageous when running in walls because it can be easier to maneuver and install in tight spaces without the risk of kinking, which can occur with multi-stranded conductors. Additionally, copper has a high level of corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term performance in residential electrical systems.

In contrast, while aluminum conductors might be used in some applications due to their lighter weight and cost-effectiveness, they are generally not favored for short runs within walls due to potential issues related to thermal expansion and connection reliability. Multi-stranded conductors are typically used in applications requiring flexibility, such as in cord and flexible connections, rather than in fixed wall installations. Composite conductors are less common in traditional residential wiring as they may involve a mix of materials that are not standard for typical home wiring tasks.