I haven’t seen this addressed here before, so I was curious to see if this would meet code. I have a small 10×12 shed I would like to run a single circuit to instead of installing a sub panel for a shed. I only need a light and one receptacle and don’t have the capacity in my existing panel for a sub panel of any amperage to speak of. I also plan on selling within the next year so don’t want any issues at sale time so want it done properly.
My plan is to run 10ga UF buried 24″ off of a 20amp breaker, the total run is ~60′. As I stated I only want to power a single light and receptacle. Is there any reason code wise not to do it this way, is there a better way? Does the receptacle or the breaker need to be GFCI? Thanks.
Replies
that UF is ok, as long as you protect any exposed length of it from physical damage. to do that, some folks use Sch 80 PVC, or Sch 40, but I prefer Galv. ridgid conduit and a condulet fitting where you poke thru into the shed
and use a gfi receptacle, instead of a breaker
Edited 11/9/2005 9:24 am by maddog3
this is one style of condulet, I would also suggest using 3/4" pipe regardless of what type..... PVC, or GRC tha you use"
So should I not even bother with the UF and just use THHN in PVC conduit, buried 18" (I like the idea of less digging!)?
absolutely,it will also allow changes in the future, eg: three way switches,
or a buzzer / blinking light ,outside light on the shed with a switch in the house.... stuff like that. add a second pipe and run a phone out there ......"
the only caution I would have is to make sure you can FIND PVC pipe.....the stuff is only available around here in the larger sizes"
Excellent advice, I will run some spare conductors while I am at it for future use. I will have to check into the availabilty of the PVC in the smaller sizes, a buddy of mine wired his workshop in 1/2" PVC elect conduit, boxes and all. I'll have to find out where he got it. Maybe it was a loan from the plant he works at!
Do the future owner a favor and DON'T use 1/2 inch PVC conduit. Just go ahead, spend the extra bit of dough and run 1". When I priced it out (before hurricanes and PVC shortages) the price difference for such a small run as yours was nickels. (Not quite pennies but not a lot either). The price difference may be more substantial now, I don't know.
Larger conduit will allow for more/bigger conductors in the future making it MUCH eaier for the guy that wants to turn one light and one switch into 30 A service to the shed. . . .
that's good advice there as well.."
Definitely, plus it'll make my pull easier. Thanks guys.
......:>}"
yup can't beat THAT price.. hahaha.Well good luck...don't forget to write!!I checked at the supply house yesterday and they are all out of 1/2", 3/4", and ....4" and the price has exceeded EMT by about ten bucks a hunnert for 3/4"