Choosing the right electrical cable is not about picking the cheapest roll on the shelf. Undersized cables overheat and cause fires. Oversized cables waste money. Here is how to pick the right one for your project.
Understanding Cable Sizes
Cable size in Morocco is measured in mm² (square millimeters). This is the cross-section of the copper conductor. The bigger the number, the more current the cable can safely carry.
- 1.5 mm²: Lighting circuits (up to 10A / 2300W).
- 2.5 mm²: General power sockets (up to 16A / 3700W).
- 4 mm²: Water heaters, air conditioners (up to 25A / 5750W).
- 6 mm²: Electric ovens, high-power heaters (up to 32A / 7400W).
- 10 mm² and above: Main feeders and industrial loads.
Rigid vs Flexible Cable
Rigid cable (H07V-U): Solid single-strand conductor. Use inside walls, conduits, and distribution boards. Cheaper, easier to terminate on screw connectors.
Flexible cable (H05VV-F, H07RN-F): Multi-strand conductor. Use for appliances, extensions, and any application where the cable will move. More expensive but bends without breaking.
Color Codes (Morocco / EU Standard)
- Blue: Neutral (N)
- Brown or Red: Live / Phase (L)
- Green-Yellow: Earth / Ground (PE) — never use for anything else
- Black: Second phase (three-phase systems)
Copper or Aluminum?
For residential and most commercial work: always copper. Copper conducts better, terminates more reliably, and is safer. Aluminum is cheaper per meter but requires special connectors and is used mainly for very heavy overhead feeders. If in doubt: copper.
Buy From Trusted Sources
Counterfeit cables are unfortunately common. They use less copper than labeled, or copper-plated steel that looks the same but conducts poorly. Always buy from reputable stores that source from certified manufacturers.