Electrical Cable Size Guide for Kenyan Homes (2026): 1.0, 1.5, 2.5, 4 and 6 mm²

Undersized cable overheats; oversized cable wastes money. Each circuit in a house has a usual cable size, matched to its breaker.

Cable Size by Circuit

These are typical starting points; long runs, bunched cables and hot ceilings need a bigger size. Your electrician confirms the final sizes.

Single Core vs Twin and Earth

• Single core: pulled through conduit, one colour per conductor (live, neutral, earth).
• Twin and earth (flat): live, neutral and earth in one sheath; used for surface or ceiling runs.
• Use the standard colours so future electricians can trace circuits safely.

Cables and Prices

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More: electrical cable prices and house wiring materials list.

Worked Example: Two-Bedroom House

A simple layout might have two lighting circuits in 1.5 mm², two socket circuits in 2.5 mm², a separate circuit for the instant shower and one for the cooker. That needs a consumer unit with at least 6 ways plus spare ways. Breaker sizes are explained in our circuit breaker guide.

How Many Metres Do I Need?

Measure each run from the consumer unit to the last point along the actual route (up walls and across ceilings), add 10–15% for drops and connections, and buy by the roll when a circuit needs most of one. See cost of wiring a house.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using 1.5 mm² for sockets.
• Running a shower off a socket circuit.
• Fitting a larger breaker than the cable can carry.
• Ignoring voltage drop on long runs.
• Mixing up colours.

Not sure which one fits? Send us your details on WhatsApp or through the product page and we will help you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size cable is used for sockets in Kenya?

2.5 mm² on a 16–20 A breaker is typical.

What size cable for lights?

1.0–1.5 mm² on a 6–10 A breaker.

What size cable for an instant shower?

Usually 4–6 mm² on its own circuit, sized to the shower rating.

What size cable for a cooker?

Commonly 6 mm² on a 32 A breaker.

How much is a 2.5 mm² cable roll?

A 2.5 mm² roll is KSh 13,500 on Buy More Mall.

Can I use 1.5 mm² cable for sockets?

No; it can overheat on a socket circuit. Use 2.5 mm².

Prices shown are regular prices on Buy More Mall. Many products are currently on offer, so open the product page to see today's price.

Related Guides

• Circuit Breaker Sizes
• Electrical Cable Price
• Cost of Wiring a House