Running Electric Cable Underground

A second method 12 in.

Running electric cable underground.

For a 6 in deep trench use galvanized rigid metal electrical conduit with individual conductors inside. There are several different methods for safely running the underground wiring but the 12 in. Secure the cable to the overhead joists with cable staples. 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.

The codes shown are examples only and may not be current or accurate for your application or jurisdiction. Running underground cables in metal conduits approved for buried cables is the most expensive method but also the one requiring the least digging. 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. Electrical cable depth options.

At the garage repeat steps 3 through 7 to install the plastic conduit and cable. Go outside and lay the cable into the trench running it all the way to the garage. From inside the basement pull the cable all the way to the main electrical panel. 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. At the garage repeat steps 3 through 7 to install the plastic conduit and cable. Will it need 240v power or is 120v enough. You may also run them at a depth of 4 inches under a 4 inch concrete slab.

From inside the basement pull the cable all the way to the main electrical panel. Go outside and lay the cable into the trench running it all the way to the garage. 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. In general bury metal conduits at least 6 inches below the soil surface.

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. 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. 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. This shed needs 240v and 60 amps.

Secure the cable to the overhead joists with cable staples. Steps to run power to a shed.