Wiktor Wise
If you're tired of extension cords and want to connect electricity to your backyard, there are a few ways to go about it. You could install outdoor outlets to power anything from a leaf blower to holiday lights. Alternatively, you can wire electricity to your shed. The burial depth of the wires will depend on the wiring method and location. You can do this by first shutting off the power and pulling out the indoor receptacle, then drilling a hole through the wall to the outside. You can also run electrical wire outside by digging a shallow trench and burying plastic-shielded cable underground. This method requires basic electrical and carpentry tools and fundamental wiring skills.
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What You'll Learn
Planning and permits
Firstly, plan the wiring method you intend to use. The most common and cost-effective method is the direct burial of type "UF" (underground feeder) cable under the soil. This method provides a durable and resistant encasement for the wires. Alternatively, you can choose to bury rigid or flexible metal or PVC electrical pipes, or opt for the aerial (overhead) method. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to research and select the most suitable option for your needs.
Secondly, obtain the necessary permits before commencing any installation work. Contact your local building inspections department or a state office to acquire electrical permits. You may also need to interact with the inspections office to verify the acceptability of your plans and determine if you require a licensed electrician for the work.
Additionally, consider the depth requirements for the wiring. The National Electrical Code (NEC) outlines specific rules for burial depth, which can range from 4 to 24 inches depending on the wiring method and the location of the buried wire. If you plan to run wires under concrete patios, slabs, or driveways, be aware that these surfaces have different depth requirements.
Before starting any work, ensure you have a safe and accessible way to establish an electrical connection from your house to the outdoors. You can do this by installing a receptacle back-to-back with one inside the house, or by drilling through the wall from a basement or crawl space. Remember to always consult a licensed electrician or your local electrical inspector if you have any doubts or need further information.
Lastly, mark the cable route from the power source to the position of the remote outlet. Use spray paint to clearly indicate the path. Don't forget to call the utility companies to mark any underground lines to avoid any potential hazards. Once you have completed these planning and permitting steps, you can confidently move forward with connecting electricity to your backyard, ensuring a safe and compliant installation.
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Choosing a wiring method
There are several wiring methods to choose from when connecting electricity to your backyard. The most common and least expensive method is the direct burial of type "UF" (underground feeder) cable under the soil. This involves burying a plastic-shielded cable 12 inches below ground level, providing a durable and moisture-resistant encasement for the conductors. However, the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies burial depths ranging from 4 to 24 inches, depending on the wiring method and location.
Another option is to use buried rigid or flexible metal or PVC electrical pipe (conduit), with conductors installed inside. This method allows for future circuit additions without the need for excavation. By installing a larger pipe or a second pipe, there will be room to pull in additional conductors. It is important to secure the conduit within 3 feet of its connection to the box and every 10 feet thereafter. If using PVC conduit, a weatherproof (WR) box extender can be installed to provide sides for connection.
For above-ground wiring, EMT tubing with "rain-tight" fittings can be used, but set-screw fittings should be avoided. If connecting to an existing indoor outlet, an LB fitting can be used to transition from indoor to outdoor wiring, providing a watertight connection to the conduit. Back-to-back receptacles can also be installed, with one inside the house, extending power outdoors.
When planning your wiring method, consider the electrical demand of the circuit and ensure it can handle the load. Obtain any necessary permits and consult a licensed electrician if needed.
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Connecting to the power source
Firstly, determine the power requirements for your backyard. Consider what you will be powering and calculate the total wattage needed. This will help you choose the appropriate wiring method and ensure your circuit can handle the electrical demand.
Next, decide on the wiring method. You can choose between direct burial of cable, using electrical pipe (PVC, metal, or flexible conduit), or an aerial method. Direct burial of type "UF" (underground feeder) cable under the soil is a common and cost-effective method, providing a durable and moisture-resistant solution. However, ensure you follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) for burial depth requirements, which can range from 4 to 24 inches depending on the wiring method and location.
Now, plan the route for your wiring. Mark the cable route from the power source (house outlet or junction box) to the location of the remote outlet. Ensure you obtain any necessary permits and call 811 to locate any underground utility lines. Plot the shortest route with the fewest pipe bends.
If you're running wiring from an indoor outlet, turn off the power at the circuit breaker and use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off. Remove the wall plate and outlet receptacle, then disconnect the wires. Drill a hole through the wall to the outside, ensuring it's at least 16 inches above the ground.
If using PVC conduit, install a weatherproof (WR) box extender and connect the PVC conduit to it. Secure the conduit within 3 feet of where it connects to the box, then every 10 feet after that. Use EMT tubing with "rain-tight" fittings for outdoor installations.
Finally, connect the wiring. If using an outdoor outlet, feed the cable through the electrical box and use a strain relief cord connector to hold the cable in place. Trim and strip the cable, then connect the wires, ensuring proper grounding. Wrap each wire connection with electrical tape for added security. Screw down the mounting tabs, reattach the wall plate, and turn the power back on. Test the outlet with a voltage tester to ensure it's working correctly.
Remember, always consult a licensed electrician if you're unsure about any part of the process.
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Running the wiring
Running electrical wiring to your backyard is a great way to extend your living space and improve your outdoor experience. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you run the wiring safely and effectively:
Planning:
Firstly, plan the power source for your outdoor wiring. This could be your electrical panel or a junction box with an existing circuit, provided it has the capacity. If you're powering a shed, consider whether you'll need to heat and cool it or expand later, as you may need a subpanel instead of a single circuit.
Permits and Inspection:
Obtain any necessary permits from your local building inspections department or a state office. Consult your local electrical inspector or a licensed electrician to ensure your project complies with regulations.
Determining Circuit Capacity:
Shut off the circuit in your main panel and determine if it can handle the additional electrical load. Add up the wattage of items on the circuit and the new outdoor wattage requirements. Ensure the total wattage does not exceed the recommended maximum for the circuit.
Choosing a Wiring Method:
There are several wiring methods to choose from, each with its benefits and drawbacks:
- Direct burial of type "UF" (underground feeder) cable under soil is a common and cost-effective method. It provides a durable, sunlight and moisture-resistant encasement for conductors.
- Rigid or flexible metal or PVC electrical pipe (conduit) with conductors installed inside provides the ability to add circuits later without further excavation.
- Aerial (overhead) method.
Marking the Route:
Mark the cable route from the power source to the outdoor outlet with spray paint. Ensure you know the locations of any underground lines by contacting utility companies.
Digging the Trench:
Dig a shallow trench for the wiring, following the marked route. The depth will depend on the wiring method and location, as per the National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines. Typically, burial depths range from 4 to 24 inches.
Installing the Wiring:
Install the wiring using the chosen method, ensuring it is secure and properly connected. If using conduit, secure it within 3 feet of connections and couplings. Use EMT tubing with "rain-tight" fittings for outdoor conduit.
Electrical Connections:
Connect the house wiring to the “line” terminals of a GFCI outlet. GFCI outlets protect against shocks from damp ground or standing water. Ensure proper connections, and wrap each wire connection with electrical tape for added security.
Testing and Completion:
Once the wiring is installed, fill the trench and complete any final connections at the house or outdoor outlet. Test the circuit by turning the power back on and using a voltage tester at both the indoor and outdoor outlets. Ensure the outlets are working properly before considering the project complete.
Remember, always put safety first when working with electricity. If you're unsure about any part of the process, consult a licensed electrician for assistance.
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Final checks and connections
Before you begin, ensure you have obtained any necessary permits and have consulted a licensed electrician if you are unsure about any part of the process.
Once you have installed the outdoor outlet box, you will need to connect the wiring. First, trim the interior end of the cable so that there is 4 inches sticking out of the electrical box. Remove the cable sheathing down to 1/2 inch. Use wire strippers to strip 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire. If your outlet previously had one set of wires, reconnect them to the same terminals. If it had two sets of wires, you will need to create a pigtail connection. To do this, cut a 6-inch piece of cable, remove the sheathing, and strip 1/2 inch of insulation from the black and white wires.
Connect the house wiring to the "line" terminals. GFCI outlets have two sets of terminals: "line" and "load." The "line" is for incoming wires from the power source, and the "load" is for switches, outlets, and fixtures. Do not wire this improperly, or users will not be protected from shocks caused by damp ground or standing water.
Wrap each wire connection with electrical tape for extra security. Carefully push the wires and the outlet into the box. Screw down the mounting tabs on the outlet and reattach the outlet's wall plate.
Finally, turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. Use a voltage tester at both the indoor and outdoor outlets to ensure they are working properly. If they are not, turn off the power and check your wire connections.
Do not backfill your trench until the electrical inspector has checked your work.
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Frequently asked questions
The quickest way to extend power outdoors is to install a receptacle back-to-back with one inside your house.
Running electrical wire outside requires some electrical know-how and a willingness to dig a shallow trench. The most common and least expensive method is to directly bury type "UF" (underground feeder) cable under the soil.
You can add an electrical circuit to your shed. First, determine whether your current circuit can handle the additional electrical demand. If it can, plan the shortest route from your power source and obtain any necessary permits. Then, wire a switch in the first box that enters your shed and run non-metallic sheathed cable (NM-B) from the shed disconnect to a GFCI receptacle.
While using an extension cord to get electricity to your backyard is possible, it is not the best method. Connecting electricity through wiring is safer and more convenient.
Before beginning any work, obtain the necessary permits and verify the acceptability of your plans with the inspections office. Ensure that you follow electrical safety guidelines, such as shutting off the power at the circuit breaker before beginning work.
