Wiktor Wise
Running electrical conduit through an exterior wall is a common way to power outdoor spaces, such as gardens, sheds, and garages. It is also a way to avoid exposed wires, which can be unsightly and pose health risks to building occupants. Before starting, it is important to gather the necessary tools, such as a noncontact voltage tester, a stud finder, and the chosen cable. Depending on the scope of work, an electrical permit may be required, so it is advisable to check with the local building department. The process involves drilling a hole in the wall, cutting and bending the conduit, sliding it through the hole, and sealing any gaps with caulk. In some cases, a trench may need to be dug to run the conduit underground. It is recommended that any conduit installation be done by or under the guidance of a trained professional, as electrical codes and requirements can vary by jurisdiction.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To safely add wiring to outdoor spaces, such as gardens, sheds, and garages, without exposed wires |
| Tools | Noncontact voltage tester, stud finder, nonmetallic sheathed cable (or SE cable), cable connectors, drill, utility knife/cable ripper, hacksaw, conduit bender, ell puller, silicone caulk, trenching machine, shovel |
| Planning | Discuss plan with installer, obtain electrical permit if required, review plan immediately before installation, turn off power to circuit, verify with noncontact voltage tester |
| Installation | Drill hole, cut and bend conduit, slide conduit through hole, attach conduit supports, seal gaps with caulk, dig trench if necessary, lay conduit, spread sand over conduit |
| Materials | Metal, plastic, PVC, electrical metallic tubing (EMT), flexible conduit, rigid metal conduit (RMC) |
| Considerations | Risk of electrical shock and fire, local electrical codes and requirements, water leaks, scope of work, skill level |
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What You'll Learn
Planning and permits
Planning:
Start by sketching a clear plan for the installation. Diagram the route of the electrical conduit, from the power source to the new electrical box locations. Use pencil and paper or painter's tape on the wall to visualize the path. Consider the number of bends in the conduit and try to keep them to a minimum, especially if you are not skilled at bending conduit. Bends can be challenging, and fewer bends will make your job easier and more efficient.
Measure Length and Materials:
Use a measuring tape to determine the length of conduit needed. Measure between boxes, including vertical rises, and add a few extra feet to your total to ensure you have enough material to work with. Consider the type of conduit you will use and select it based on your project's specific needs. PVC conduit, for example, is flexible, easy to fit into many areas, and a popular choice for DIY homeowners, while metal conduit offers more sturdiness.
Comply with Codes:
Compliance with local codes, such as the National Electric Code (NEC), is crucial for safety and legality. Contact your local building department or electrical inspector to understand the specific code requirements in your area. This step will help you ensure your installation meets all necessary standards and regulations.
Obtain Permits:
Before starting any work, always obtain the necessary permits. Check with your local building department to determine if an electrical permit is required for your project. Any changes to your home's electrical system, such as running conduit outside, typically require a permit. Obtaining permits ensures your work is legal and up to code, avoiding potential fines or issues down the line.
Prepare for Inspection:
As part of the permitting process, your local jurisdiction may require an inspection by a licensed electrician or building inspector. They will verify that your installation meets code requirements and identify any potential hazards. Ensure you follow all guidelines and are prepared for this inspection to receive approval for your project.
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Tools and preparation
To prepare for running electrical conduit through an exterior wall, you will need a set of specific tools and materials to ensure a safe and efficient installation. Here is a list of tools and preparation tips to help guide you:
- Drill and Drill Bits: Essential for making holes in the exterior wall to pass the conduit through. Use a masonry bit for brick or concrete walls and a spade bit for wood.
- Conduit Benders: These are required for creating bends and turns in rigid conduits, shaping the conduit to fit the installation path and avoid obstructions.
- Measuring Tape: To accurately measure the length of conduit and wire needed.
- Level: Ensures that your conduit is installed straight and aligns properly.
- Fish Tape or Draw Wire: This flexible line can be pushed through the conduit and pulled back with the wires attached. It facilitates pulling wires through the conduit without damaging them.
- Wire Strippers and Cutters: Necessary for preparing and terminating electrical wires.
- Conduit Cutter: Used for precise cutting of conduits to desired lengths.
- Fasteners and Connectors: Ensure the secure attachment of conduits to surfaces and facilitate junctions.
- Conduit Hangers or Straps: These hold the conduit in place along the exterior wall.
- Sealant or Caulk: Provides a weatherproof seal around the conduit entry points to prevent water ingress.
- Grommets or Bushings: Protect wires from being abraded by sharp edges at entry points.
- Electrical Wire: Ensure it’s rated for outdoor use and matches the gauge requirements of your electrical system.
- Nonmetallic Sheathed Cable or SE Cable: This is the cable you will use for the installation.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE, such as gloves and safety goggles, for added safety.
- Consult Local Building Codes: Comply with local building codes and electrical standards to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Consult your local municipality to learn about existing electric, water, and gas lines before beginning any exterior installation.
- Plan the Route: Carefully plan the route of your conduit installation, considering any underground segments that may require digging a trench.
- Map Out a Clear Plan: Before starting your installation, map out a clear plan and discuss it with an installer. This information may be required to obtain a permit for your project. Contact your local building department to inquire about any necessary permits.
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Drilling and cutting
Planning and Preparation:
Before beginning the drilling and cutting process, it is essential to have a clear plan for the conduit installation. This includes determining the location of wall studs and secure attachment points, and the specific type of cable to be used. It is also important to ensure that the power to the circuit is completely turned off, and a noncontact voltage tester should be used to verify that no voltage is running through the work area. Additionally, check with your local building department to determine if a permit is required for the scope of work.
Drilling the Hole:
When drilling the hole for the conduit, use a drill bit that creates an appropriately sized hole. The hole should be slightly larger than the conduit to ensure a snug fit. Consider the type of conduit being used, as flexible conduits may not require shaping and bending. If the conduit needs to be bent, use a conduit bender to create the necessary angles. For non-flexible conduits, you can use 90-degree and 45-degree angle fittings and connect them to the straight sections.
Cutting the Conduit:
Cut the conduit to the required length using a hacksaw or similar tool. If you've made cuts, remove any sharp burrs by rubbing them with pliers to prevent snagging on electrical wires. Flexible conduits may not require cutting and can be tied to the inside of studs using flexible plastic hangers.
Sliding the Conduit:
Before sliding the conduit into the hole, verify that there is no water present, especially if placing the conduit near a water source. An ell puller may be needed to help insert the conduit at a 90-degree angle. As you slide the conduit through the hole, ensure it fits snugly without being too tight or too loose.
Sealing and Finishing:
If there are gaps between the conduit and the hole in the wall, seal them with silicone caulk. This step is optional but helps prevent water leaks and provides a neat finish. For additional water protection, use a properly sized feed-through bushing and dab silicone caulk behind it before pushing it into place. Finally, attach the conduit to a stud or use drywall anchors, and repeat the process for any additional boxes or connections.
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Bending and shaping
However, if you are using a non-flexible conduit, you will need to bend it to create the necessary angles for your installation. The most common angle you will need to create is a 90-degree bend, which is used to connect the straight sections of the conduit. You can purchase pre-made 90-degree elbows and connect them to the straight runs with couplings. Alternatively, you can use a conduit bender to create the bend yourself, which will give your installation a more professional look.
Another common bend is an offset, which is a two-part bend used to lift the conduit off the wall slightly as it enters an electrical box. This type of bend is much more difficult to execute, especially for beginners. As such, it is recommended to use conduit hangers, also known as "minnies," to strap the conduit to the wall instead. These straps hold the conduit slightly off the wall, allowing it to go straight into the box without the need for an offset bend.
When bending your conduit, it is important to ensure that there are no sharp edges or burrs that could snag an electrical wire. Use pliers to rub along the edges and inside of the conduit until it is smooth. Additionally, make sure to confirm the size of the hole in the wall and adjust the conduit as needed before sliding it into place.
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Sealing and finishing
Sealing Gaps and Protecting Against Water Leaks
Seal any gaps or openings around the conduit to prevent water leaks and ensure a neat finish. This can be done using silicone caulk, which should be applied to fill in any spaces between the conduit and the hole in the wall. It is important to ensure that the caulk is compatible with the material of the wall and conduit to achieve a strong and durable seal. Check with your local hardware store for advice on the best type of caulk to use.
Additionally, when running cables through exterior walls, it is essential to use a feed-through bushing for added water protection. Drill a hole slightly larger than the cable, apply silicone caulk behind the bushing, and then push the bushing into place. After that, you can safely run the cable through the bushing, ensuring that it is securely held in place with cable clamps. This extra step will provide a reliable barrier against water intrusion, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your electrical system and preventing potential water damage to your home.
Finishing Touches and Safety Considerations
Once the conduit is securely in place and any gaps are sealed, there are a few final steps to complete the installation. First, ensure that all covers and faceplates are securely replaced. Then, turn on the circuit breakers and test the connection to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Use a voltage tester to verify that the power is running through the conduit as intended.
It is also important to be mindful of safety regulations and local building codes. In some cases, permits may be required for this type of electrical work, so be sure to check with your local building department. Additionally, if you are working with a soft or porous wall surface, consider using armoured cable (BX cable) or flexible plastic hangers to provide mechanical protection and ensure the safety of your electrical installation.
Lastly, always remember to work with a trained professional or seek guidance if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation. Working with electrical systems can be dangerous, so it is essential to prioritize safety and compliance with local regulations at all times.
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Frequently asked questions
Running electrical conduit through an exterior wall helps to power outdoor spaces such as gardens, sheds, and garages. It also ensures that there are no exposed wires running along the walls, which can ruin the exterior of the house and pose a safety risk.
You will need a noncontact voltage tester, a stud finder, a nonmetallic sheathed cable or SE cable, cable connectors, a drill, a utility knife or cable ripper, and a bender.
In most cases, any changes made to the electrical system in a home, such as running conduit outside, require an electrical permit. It is recommended to contact your local building department to inquire about the requirements.
Conduits come in a range of styles and materials, including metal and plastic. Metal conduits are typically used for electrical wiring when the walls are masonry and the conduit is exposed. PVC conduit is a flexible, waterproof, and cheaper option, but it is not as sturdy as metal.
First, ensure that the power to the circuit is turned off and verify this with a noncontact voltage tester. Then, drill a hole in the wall that is slightly larger than the conduit. Cut and bend the conduit as needed, and slide it through the hole. Use caulk to seal any gaps, and attach the conduit to a stud or use drywall anchors. Finally, turn on the circuit breakers and test the connection.
