Molly Ayala
Burying electrical cords is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. The type of electrical cord to be buried depends on various factors, such as the soil type, depth of burial, local electrical codes, and the specific requirements of the project. Before starting any electrical project, it is crucial to consult official guidelines, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC), and consider seeking professional assistance from licensed electricians.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cable Type | UF (Underground Feeder) Cable |
| Cable Rating | Must be rated for underground use and direct burial |
| Cable Protection | GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection |
| Burial Depth | Minimum 12 inches, up to 24 inches depending on type of conduit |
| Conduit Type | PVC, metal, or plastic |
| Conduit Burial Depth | Minimum 6 inches for metal, 18 inches for PVC |
| Soil Type | Consider soil type and digging requirements when choosing depth and conduit |
| Local Codes | Check local codes and consult an electrician or inspector for compliance |
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What You'll Learn
Burial depth requirements
For instance, GFCI-protected direct-buried Type UF cable should be installed at a depth of 12 inches. This depth provides enhanced electrical safety and reduces the need for a deeper trench. On the other hand, PVC conduit with individual insulated wires should be buried at a depth of 18 inches. These wires are typically rated for wet locations and must be pulled through the conduit once the entire run is complete.
If you opt for a Type UF cable for the entire run, a greater depth of 24 inches is required. This deeper burial provides additional protection for the cable, which lies at the bottom of the trench without the extra protection of conduit or GFCI protection.
Galvanized rigid metal electrical conduit with individual insulated wires can be installed at a shallower depth of six inches. This option is suitable for small backyard electrical projects, as it minimizes digging and eliminates the need for expensive metal conduit.
It is important to prioritize safety and consult local regulations when determining burial depth. Local codes may override national codes, so contacting a local electrician or building inspector is advisable to ensure compliance with specific requirements in your area.
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Soil type considerations
Soil type plays a crucial role in determining the type of electrical cord to bury and the installation method. Here are the key considerations regarding soil types:
If you have granular soil that is easy to dig, you have more options for installing underground electrical wiring. You can choose to dig deeper and save money on electrical materials by potentially foregoing the need for metal or plastic conduit to protect the wiring from physical damage. This method is suitable for various projects, such as running electricity to a detached garage, tool shed, or garden pond.
On the other hand, if you have rocky soil, heavy clay, or encounter lots of tree roots, you can minimize digging and still provide superior protection for the buried wiring. In such cases, installing galvanized rigid metal electrical conduit or PVC conduit with individual insulated wires is recommended. This method is more expensive due to the cost of the conduit and insulated wires, but it reduces the required digging depth.
Additionally, consider the depth requirements for different types of wire and conduit. For example, GFCI-protected underground feeder cable typically needs to be buried at a depth of 12 inches, while PVC conduit with individual insulated wires should be buried at 18 inches. If you are using direct-buried Type UF-B cable, it needs to be installed at a depth of 24 inches without the protection of a conduit or GFCI protection.
It is also important to note that some sources suggest using sand or sifted earth above the cable if the soil contains sharp stones or flints that could damage it. This provides an extra layer of protection for the electrical cord.
Lastly, always refer to your local building codes and regulations for specific requirements and depth guidelines. Consulting with a local electrician or building inspector is advisable to ensure compliance and safety.
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Conduit options
The type of conduit you choose depends on the type of soil in your yard. If your soil is rocky or heavy clay, or you encounter lots of tree roots, you can minimise digging by using metal or plastic conduit to protect the buried wiring.
If you're burying electrical wiring outdoors, you must follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local codes. All outdoor outlets must be protected by a GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter).
PVC conduit must be buried at least 18 inches deep, while galvanized metal electrical conduits must be buried at least 6 inches deep.
If you're using direct burial cable, you can use GFCI-protected direct-buried Type UF cable, which needs to be installed 12 inches deep. If you're using individual insulated wires, you'll need to install them inside PVC conduit, which needs to be buried 18 inches deep. The wires must be rated for use in a wet location, such as Type THWN-2 (thermoplastic/wet location/nylon jacket).
If you're using Type UF cable without conduit, it needs to be buried 24 inches deep.
For small backyard electrical projects, you can use direct-buried Type UF-B cable, which only needs to be buried 12 inches deep. You'll need to install conduit to protect the cable where it transitions from above ground to underground.
If you want flexibility for future upgrades, it's better to bury conduit rather than cable. You can use PVC conduit or galvanized rigid metal electrical conduit.
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Cable types
The type of electrical cable you need depends on the specifics of your project.
Firstly, you should always refer to the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local codes for safety requirements. Direct burial wire should be used in compliance with local municipality rules and guidelines to ensure safe installation.
If you are electrifying a detached garage, tool shed, or garden pond, you can use a direct-buried Type UF-B cable, provided the branch circuit is protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and a circuit breaker or fuse rated no higher than 20 amperes. This type of cable should be buried at least 12 inches deep, although some sources recommend 24 inches.
If you are using PVC conduit with individual insulated wires, the recommended burial depth is 18 inches. The wires must be rated for use in a wet location, such as Type THWN-2 (thermoplastic/wet location/nylon jacket).
For galvanized rigid metal electrical conduit with individual insulated wires, the burial depth can be as shallow as 6 inches.
If you are installing landscape lighting, pumps for garden ponds, or electricity in carpentry workshops, you will need to decide whether to use 240V or 120V power. You will also need to determine whether you can use the main circuit breaker panel or need to install a subpanel.
For a small utility shed, a #12 UF-B (moisture and UV light-resistant) cable is appropriate on a 20A breaker (or smaller).
If you are installing underground wiring for an outbuilding, you can use 20-amp GFI with UF cable or PVC conduit.
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Safety precautions
Before starting any electrical project, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some essential precautions to keep in mind when burying electrical wires:
- Contact your local building inspection department or a licensed electrician to inquire about any necessary permits or code requirements. Local codes and regulations may supersede national codes, so ensure you have the correct information for your area.
- Call local utility companies to identify the locations of existing underground utilities. This step is critical to avoid damaging any existing infrastructure and to ensure your safety.
- Assess the type of soil you have. If you have rocky soil, heavy clay, or encounter tree roots, consider using metal or plastic conduit to protect the wiring and minimize digging. Walk-behind trenching machines are also available for rent to assist with the digging process.
- Determine the required burial depth for your wiring based on local regulations and the type of conduit, wire, or cable you are using. Direct-buried wires typically require a greater depth than those protected by conduit.
- Ensure you use the correct type of wire for your project. Wires must be rated for use in wet locations, such as Type THWN-2 (thermoplastic/wet location/nylon jacket).
- If using conduit, install expansion fittings on the stub-ups to account for relative motion between the conduit and buildings due to frost heaving or seismic activity.
- Consider leaving a pull string in the conduit to facilitate the future addition of wires.
- Always follow basic safety guidelines when working with electricity, and if you are unsure, consult a licensed electrician to ensure your project is completed safely and accurately.
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Frequently asked questions
The National Electrical Code (NEC) outlines safety requirements for outdoor electrical wiring. The type of soil is a key factor in determining the burial method and materials. If the soil is rocky or heavy clay, use metal or plastic conduit for protection.
A #12 UF-B (moisture and UV light-resistant) cable is suitable for a 20A breaker or smaller. Conduit may reduce the depth requirement, which depends on your location.
The depth varies depending on the type of conduit and wire or cable used. For example, PVC conduit should be buried at least 18 inches deep, while galvanized metal electrical conduits only require a minimum depth of 6 inches. Direct burial cables must be buried at least 24 inches deep unless they are in a conduit.
Yes, direct burial cables are designed for this purpose and are rated for harsh underground environments. However, they must be clearly labelled for direct burial use and comply with local municipality rules.
While basic electrical skills can make it a DIY project, consulting a licensed electrician for final connections and complex situations is recommended to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
