Best 100-Amp Aluminum SER Cable for Service Entrances
When selecting a 100-amp aluminum SER cable, aim for a solution that combines proven conductors, suitable insulation, and reliable outdoor performance. This guide highlights five SER cables that are commonly used for main service entrances in homes and mobile homes. Each option is evaluated for suitability, best-for scenarios, and practical limitations, helping buyers choose the right cable for above-ground runs and standard NEC-compatible installations.
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| Wirenco 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable (100FT Cut) | Above-ground feeders requiring 100 A and 600 V ratings |
| FairySandy 100′ 1-1-1-3 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable | Residential and mobile home service feeders, with XHHW-2 insulation |
| Nassau Electrical Supply 100′ 1-1-1-3 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable | Main panel feeders in standard 1-1-1-3 configuration |
| NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable | 4-conductor feeders for larger loads at 100 A |
| FairySandy 75Ft 1-1-1-3 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable | Above-ground runs where shorter length is sufficient |
Wirenco 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable (100FT Cut)
Conductor configuration: 2-2-2-4. Insulation and rating align with standard service entrance needs for 100 amps and 600 volts. Best for above-ground feeder runs to main panels in residential settings, especially where 4 conductors are needed to support multi-wire feeders. The cable is described as suitable for wet and dry locations.
Who it’s best for: homeowners or contractors needing a 4-conductor SER run for a 100 A service in above-ground installations. Why chosen: it provides the typical 2-2-2-4 arrangement for main feeders, with a cut to 100 ft option for flexible installation planning.
Caution: verify conduit compatibility and local code allowances for above-ground SER installations; confirm terminations are rated for this configuration.
FairySandy 100′ 1-1-1-3 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable
Conductor configuration: 1-1-1-3 with XHHW-2 insulation and a gray PVC jacket. Rated for 600V and 100A (75°C) or 115A (90°C) depending on operating temperature. Suitable for mobile homes and standard residential service feeders above ground.
Best for: mobile home service feeders and standard residential feeders where three phase conductors plus a ground are needed. Why chosen: the 1-1-1-3 layout is common for many service installations, and the insulation type supports reliability in dry and wet locations.
Caution: Not intended for direct burial; ensure proper routing and protection in exposed outdoor runs.
Nassau Electrical Supply 100′ 1-1-1-3 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable
Conductor configuration: 1-1-1-3 with a 3 AWG ground. Material: Aluminum. Rated for 600V. Designed for service entrance use in standard installations where a 1-1-1-3 layout fits the panel’s feeder setup.
Best for: installers needing a straightforward 1-1-1-3 SER run for single-family homes. Why chosen: common 1-1-1-3 configuration is widely compatible with many service panels and main feeders.
Caution: verify ground conductor sizing and ensure compliance with local NEC requirements for ground sizing in your specific installation.
NASSAU ELECTRICAL SUPPLY 2-2-2-4 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable
Configuration: 2-2-2-4 with four insulated conductors and a bare ground (size 4). Rated for 600V and 100A service feeders. Suitable for main panels requiring a 4-conductor SER run.
Best for: installations needing a 4-conductor, 100 A service entrance with separate ground conductor. Why chosen: aligns with common 2-2-2-4 configurations used in many residential service entrances.
Caution: check conduit fill and protective routing to avoid damage to the insulation in overhead applications.
Nassau Electrical Supply 100′ 1/0-1/0-1/0-2 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable
Conductor configuration: 1/0-1/0-1/0-2 with bare ground (2 AWG) and aluminum conductors. Rated for 600V. Intended for 100 A service feeder installations with larger conductor sizes to support higher loads or longer runs.
Best for: longer feeders or higher-load residential service entrances where 1/0 to 2 AWG ground is appropriate. Why chosen: offers a larger conductor set within the SER family to accommodate specific panel or load requirements.
Caution: confirm compatibility with local utility and panel requirements for oversized conductors in SER cables.
FairySandy 75Ft 1-1-1-3 SER Aluminum Service Entrance Cable
Configuration: 1-1-1-3 with XHHW-2 insulation and a gray PVC jacket. Rated for 600V and 100A (75°C) / 115A (90°C). Designed for above-ground service feeders and shorter runs.
Best for: smaller installations or limited-distance runs in residential or light commercial settings. Why chosen: compact length makes it a flexible option for tight spaces or seasonal setups.
Caution: not suitable for direct burial; ensure proper routing to protect insulation from physical damage.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a 100-amp SER cable:
- Conductor configuration: 2-2-2-4 vs 1-1-1-3 vs larger gauges. Choose based on panel feeder requirements and available space.
- Insulation and jacket: XHHW-2 insulation offers moisture and heat resistance; ensure jacket material withstands outdoor exposure and sunlight.
- Rated voltage and current: ensure a 600V rating and 100A service alignment with NEC guidelines for your installation.
- Above-ground vs direct burial: most SER cables listed are for above-ground use. Do not bury unless explicitly rated for burial.
- Length and routing: select lengths that minimize splices and reduce conduit complexity; plan for future expansion if needed.
- Grounding and bonding: verify ground conductor sizing and compliance with local codes; improper grounding can create safety risks.
Quick FAQs
- What does SER stand for in SER cable?
– Service Entrance Cable, with a round, reinforced design for above-ground service feeders. - Can 100-amp SER cable be buried?
– Generally not; most SER cables are for above-ground use unless specifically rated for burial. - Which conductor size is common for 100 A service feeders?
– Common configurations include 2-2-2-4 or 1-1-1-3, depending on panel requirements. - Is XHHW-2 insulation important?
– Yes; XHHW-2 provides moisture and heat resistance suitable for outdoor runs.