#Underground wire nuts code#
#Underground wire nuts professional#

If the conduit provides a continuous connection between the control center box and the tank, the conduit entrance to the box should be plugged with electrical putty to prevent the movement of moisture and corrosive gases into the control box. The area around the conduit entering the tank should be sealed to prevent surface water from entering the tank through the conduit. The power cable to the pump and float switch cables running from the control center into the tank should be run in conduit (metal or PVC) where physical protection is needed. A second wire should be run for the alarm and should be on a second circuit. Having these two values allows for proper selection of the wire sizes. This is done by comparing the length of wire necessary from the pump to the power box and the horsepower required for the pump. Make sure the wire has the proper capacity for the electrical demands of the pump. The table gives wire specifications for various lengths and motor ratings. The size of the wire is determined from the electrical need (the motor size) and the length of wire. Minimum burial requirements apply to wire in conduit and cables. If conduit and cable are used in combination, appropriate connectors and bushings are needed for transitions from one system to the other. Conduit is particularly useful to protect cables where they enter and exit the soil. Conduit can be used around cable for physical protection. While it is an excellent material for interior wiring, it will not withstand the moisture conditions in the soil.Ĭombining the conduit and cable wiring methods is also an option. Do not use nonmetallic cable for underground installations. This is particularly true around the septic tank. Do not use thin wall conduit (EMT) for underground or outdoor installations.Īn underground feeder cable can be buried without conduit protection, but physical protection for underground cable is highly recommended to reduce the risk of spading through the cable later. High-density polyethylene conduit is suitable for underground installation. Rigid PVC conduit can be used above ground. However, aluminum conduit is not recommended for installation where it is directly in contact with soil. Rigid metal conduit made from aluminum or steel provides equivalent wire protection. Several kinds of conduit are acceptable for outdoor use. Running wires through sealed conduit provides physical, water and corrosion protection. In either case, protection from physical damage, water and corrosion must be provided. One method is to place electrical wires inside a conduit. Two methods, or a combination of the two, are common in outdoor wiring. The circuit breaker or fuse supplying this circuit should be clearly marked at the service entrance location. Power to the septic system should be from a single branch circuit with no other loads. Avoid routing buried wiring through existing or anticipated gardens or landscaping areas to minimize the chances of damage due to spading.

#Underground wire nuts code#

Power to the pump and alarm system, when located outside a building, will most frequently be supplied by an underground branch circuit from a nearby service entrance or subpanel.įollow electrical code specifications for materials and burial depths. Often septic system installers must work with electricians to understand the needs of the system being installed.

#Underground wire nuts professional#

Get Systems/ATUs articles, news and videos right in your inbox! Sign up now.Īuthor’s note: Be sure all electrical work is done by the appropriately licensed professional required in your jurisdiction.