How to Install PVC Conduit for an Outside Circuit
Installing PVC conduit is the cheapest and easiest methods to run power to an outside location. Although metal conduit is available, I will stick with showing you how to run PVC. You will need to buy the correct amount of PVC and an LB fitting. You will also need Plastic clamps to attach the PVC to your home or garage wall. PVC adhesive and a PVC cutter or hacksaw is needed as well as a hammer drill and fish tape.
Start by finding the location where your wire will come from the circuit and drill a hole wide enough to accommodate the LB fitting. Drill just above the foundation of your home or shed. Cut a PVC nipple so that it extends into your home or shed 1 inch. Push it into the hole and glue the ends with PVC adhesive and attach the LB fitting. Push the entire LB fitting so that it is flush with the wall.
Dig a trench below the LB fitting making it wide as the shovels width. Make sure it is at least a minimum of 18 inches deep. It’s always a good idea to go a little deeper than that. Cut a length of PVC conduit so that it will attach to the LB fitting and reach the bottom of the trench. Make sure you leave enough room to attach an elbow. Attach the elbow with PVC adhesive and attach the PVC into the LB fitting with the adhesive. Push together for a tight fit. Make sure it’s in the position as soon as possible because the adhesive does dry quickly.
Now cut the entire length of PVC conduit to fit into your trench. Assemble it with the PVC adhesive outside of your trench to make it easier. Once the entire length is ready and dry, place it into the ditch and glue with the PVC adhesive to the end of the elbow. Now you can attach the length running up your wall with the plastic clamps. Drill into the foundation and insert the plastic shields that hold the screw in place. Insert the screws and clamp the PVC conduit to the foundation of your home or shed.
Caulk around the LB fitting leading into your home or shed using outdoor rated caulk. This will create a watertight bond between the LB fitting and your wall. Clean off the excess with a wet sponge or rag.
To run the cable through the conduit, you should begin by running it from the outside to the inside. This way you know there is no power hooked up to the cable. After the PVC conduit is dry and secured, throw a little dirt on the conduit to hold it in place. Don’t bury the trench yet. Remove the cover of the LB fitting and insert the fish tape down the conduit. Push it through the conduit until it comes out the other end. Sometimes around an elbow the fish tape may bend. You may need to pull it back out a little and push it in until it passes through. Once it exposed from the other end of the PVC about 6 inches or so, Attach the cable to the fish tape using electrical tape. Bend the wire slightly away from the conduit and wrap the electrical tape all the way around the wire and fish tape. Don’t over do it, but make sure it is secure and free from any edges the may bind up the wire inside. Pull the fish tape and cable through the conduit. If it becomes too difficult; you may need to purchase electrical lubrication. Squirt it down through the conduit prior and during the pulling of the cable.
Pull enough wire out of the LB connection and you’ll be ready to attach the new circuit to your panel or other connection for your new electrical device. Bury the trench and cover with grass or sod.
