Running Electric Cable Underground

The codes shown are examples only and may not be current or accurate for your application or jurisdiction.

Running electric cable underground.

Understanding the importance of proper underground wiring nec 300 3 all conductors of the same circuit including grounded conductors shall be contained in the same raceway cable or trench. Decide how much digging you re prepared to do which determines the type of wire you need to use. You may also run them at a depth of 4 inches under a 4 inch concrete slab. Go outside and lay the cable into the trench running it all the way to the garage.

Secure the cable to the overhead joists with cable staples. Deep pvc conduit method we show is about the easiest and most practical for running a typical 15 amp line. Determine what the power needs of the outbuilding will be. In general bury metal conduits at least 6 inches below the soil surface.

What kind of electrical loads will there be. Deep direct burial of type uf underground feeder cable is another easy alternative. From inside the basement pull the cable all the way to the main electrical panel. If you are sufficiently confident of your wiring skills that you would feel comfortable adding an electrical circuit indoors then running a circuit to a.

There are several different methods for safely running the underground wiring but the 12 in. Steps to run power to a shed. At the garage repeat steps 3 through 7 to install the plastic conduit and cable. This determines the size of the feed wire as well as the size of the new circuit breaker needed at the house s main panel.

Extending electrical service to a detached garage or other outbuilding isn t much different than adding a circuit inside the house with one important exception running underground cable. From inside the basement pull the cable all the way to the main electrical panel. Underground wire for a residential circuit usually is installed with underground feeder uf cable which is rated for outdoor use and direct burial such an installation is typical when running a circuit to an outdoor location such as a garage shed or other outbuilding or to a yard light or water feature. Running underground cables in metal conduits approved for buried cables is the most expensive method but also the one requiring the least digging.

Underground cable for running electrical power to a remote location can be installed at different depths depending on the type of conduit and type of wire used. Electrical cable depth options. Go outside and lay the cable into the trench running it all the way to the garage. For a 6 in deep trench use galvanized rigid metal electrical conduit with individual conductors inside.

A second method 12 in. Secure the cable to the overhead joists with cable staples.