Using PVC Conduit for Electrical Wiring |
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For a safe and long-lasting solution to electrical wiring, you can install PVC (non-metallic) conduit. You may find that it is less expensive to run conduit for heavy duty circuits to the stove and dryer as compared to buying a full 250 ft roll of Romex or BX cable, but CHECK THE LOCAL BUILDING CODES! The conduit is used in conjunction with single-stranded wire. You can run conduit yourself (assuming you are the homeowner, have a licensed electrician willing to work with you and local codes allow for this). Compared to metallic conduit, PVC is less than 1/3 the weight and easier to work with. |
Items needed:
Conduit and connectors
Single strand cable Conduit clamps Screw driver Pliers Fish tape Electric drill Spade bit or hole saw Safety glasses |
Safety Suggestions and Tips
Caution using ladder
Use eye protection with power tools Hire an electrician to connect to breaker box |
Level of difficulty
Time Required: 8 hour
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Steps |
Step 1: First you will need to plan your route from the breaker panel to the receptacle box. It is important to understand that pulling wiring depends on the number of bends, so look for options which will minimize bends. Typical conduit sizes for residential application are: 3/4", 1" and 1-1/2" diameter, but can be up to 6" in diameter. Remember, the larger the wire size (for example,10 or 6 gage strands), the larger the conduit you will need. Let the electrician determine which size conduit you will need. |
Step 2: In turning corners, there are 45 and 90 degree elbows, but you can also purchase 30 and 22 degree elbows. |
Step 3: With the help of a friend, layout the route. |
Step 4: Measure the distances needed for each section of conduit. |
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