Installing an outdoor outlet with conduit provides a weatherproof and protected way to supply power outside your home. Having an outdoor outlet is extremely convenient for plugging in lawn equipment, holiday lights, or other outdoor needs. Installing one yourself can save on electrician fees, but it’s important to follow electrical codes for safety. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of installing an outdoor outlet with conduit step-by-step.

Introduction to Installing an Outdoor Outlet with Conduit

An outdoor outlet, also known as an exterior receptacle, allows you to plug devices into an electrical source outside your home. Installing an outdoor outlet is a valuable upgrade to any home for increased functionality, convenience and property value.

Running electrical wiring underground and installing an outdoor outlet must be done properly for safety. Using a conduit pipe protects the wires and provides an enclosed pathway to the outlet location. The conduit also allows you to easily run new wiring to the outdoor outlet in the future if needed.

Installing an outdoor outlet yourself can save hundreds of dollars in electrician fees. However, working with electrical wiring requires following proper safety precautions and electrical codes. We will cover all the steps needed while adhering to the National Electrical Code (NEC) for a compliant and professional outdoor outlet installation.

Benefits of Installing an Outdoor Outlet

There are many benefits to having an outdoor electrical outlet at your home:

Convenience – Easily plug in outdoor lighting, tools, appliances without extra extension cords.
Safety – Up to code exterior outlets are weatherproof and ground fault protected.
Value – Outdoor outlets add usefulness and value to your home for resale.
Flexibility – GFCI protected exterior outlets allow safe use of outdoor electrical devices and power tools.
Cost Savings – Installing it yourself prevents paying electrician markup and service fees.
Ease of Maintenance – The conduit makes it simple to replace wiring if needed down the road.

As long as local codes and proper procedures are followed, installing an outdoor outlet with conduit is a straightforward DIY project that most homeowners can tackle.

What You’ll Need

Installing an outdoor electrical outlet is something a homeowner with basic DIY skills can usually do themselves. However, it does require having the proper materials and tools on hand.

Materials

Outdoor weatherproof GFCI outlet
Weatherproof exterior outlet cover
1/2″ or 3/4” Electrical conduit & fittings
THWN wire (sized for circuit)
Outdoor weatherproof electrical boxes
Grounding rod and clamp
Waterproof silicone adhesive
Duct seal (for conduit connections)
Electrical tape
Cable staples & outdoor-rated staple gun
Wire nuts
Electrical box mounting screws

Tools

Voltage tester
Hammer drill
Masonry drill bit (if installing on concrete/brick)
Conduit bender or pipe hickey
Hack saw (to cut conduit)
Wire stripper
Torpedo level
Trenching shovel (if burying conduit)
Fish tape
Multimeter
Cable staple gun
Safety glasses & work gloves

Planning the Installation

Before getting started, take some time to plan out your outdoor outlet project:

Decide on placement – Choose an inconspicuous location protected from weather.
Consider proximity – Don’t locate too far from the indoor panel for wire voltage drop.
Determine wire and pipe size – Factor in circuit amperage and length of wire run.
Inspect work area – Check for buried pipes/wires before digging trench for conduit.
Gather tools & materials – Obtain all necessary equipment and supplies for the project.
Check local codes – Verify outdoor outlet requirements for your municipality.
Electrical permits – Building codes may require an electrical permit for exterior outlet installs.
Get GFCI outlet – NEC requires new outdoor receptacles to be GFCI protected for safety.
Turn off power – Shut off the circuit breaker supplying power before starting work.

Careful planning and preparation will help ensure your outdoor outlet project goes smoothly and safely.

How to Install an Outdoor Outlet with Conduit Step-by-Step

Follow these step-by-step instructions to properly and safely install an outdoor outlet with protective conduit:

Step 1: Turn Off Power

Turn off the circuit breaker for the circuit you plan to supply power from to the new outdoor outlet. Use a non-contact voltage tester to double check the wires have no power before working.

Step 2: Install Outdoor Electrical Box

Decide on placement for the outdoor outlet based on your needs. Mount the exterior outlet box to the wall or other solid surface. The box should be weatherproof and exterior rated. Use weatherproof silicone adhesive to seal around any gaps.

Step 3: Install Conduit to Outlet Box

Run 1/2″ or 3/4” electrical conduit from the main panel or closest junction box to the outdoor outlet box. Use proper conduit fittings and seal all connections with duct seal. Leave at least 6 inches of extra conduit at the outlet box.

Step 4: Pull Wires Through Conduit

Pull the necessary power wires (hot, neutral, ground) through the conduit using a fish tape. Use THWN wire sized appropriately for the circuit amperage and length of wire run.

Step 5: Connect Wires

Connect the hot and neutral wires to the outlet. Connect the ground wire to the grounding screw or bus bar in the outlet box. Use wire nuts to secure the connections.

Step 6: Mount Outlet

Attach the weatherproof GFCI outlet securely into the outdoor electrical box. Screw in the weatherproof outlet cover. Caulk around conduit on box exterior.

Step 7: Connect Conduit at Panel

Run the conduit into the main electrical panel or junction box. Cut conduit to length. Attach liquidtight fitting and secure with duct seal.

Step 8: Connect Wires

Connect the wires to the appropriate circuit in the panel. Attach the ground wire to the grounding bus bar. Neatly organize any excess wire length.

Step 9: Install Grounding Rod

For added protection, install a grounding rod next to the outdoor outlet box per electrical codes. Connect rod to outlet box grounding terminal.

Step 10: Restore Power & Test

Turn the circuit breaker back on to restore power. Use a voltage tester and GFCI tester to confirm outlet is wired correctly and functioning properly before use.

Following these key steps properly will ensure a safe outdoor outlet installation that meets electrical codes.

Installing Underground Conduit to Outlet

For a more concealed look, the conduit can be buried underground. This involves the extra steps of trenching, installing underground PVC conduit, and backfilling the trench after.

Digging the Trench

Dig a 6-12 inch deep trench in a straight line from the outlet location to the main panel or junction box entry point. Inspect trench and call utility marking service if needed before digging.

Running Underground Conduit

Lay PVC schedule 40 electrical conduit in the bottom of the trench. Secure joints with primer/cement. Use sweeps and elbows to turn corners smoothly.

Covering the Conduit

Cover the conduit with 2-3 inches of sand or earth followed by a protective plastic conduit tape. Backfill the remaining trench and pack firmly. Replace any sod or surfaces disturbed.

Entry Points

Bring the conduit up above grade at the outlet and panel entry points. Use conduit sealant and fittings to attach the underground PVC conduit to the metallic conduit running into the outlet and panel.

Burying the line adds extra protection but requires deeper digging. Determine if worth the added effort for your install location and preferences.

Wiring an Outdoor Outlet from a New Circuit

If there is no existing outdoor circuit available to tap into, a new dedicated circuit must be ran to the exterior outlet.

Running New Circuit Wires

Run a new 2 wire NM cable line with ground from the main panel to the outdoor outlet box. Use 12 AWG or larger wire sized for ~20 amp circuit minimum. Pull through conduit and staple per code.

Dedicated Circuit Breaker

Shut off main breaker panel power. Install a new dedicated 15 or 20 amp circuit breaker in the panel. Connect the hot wire to the new breaker.

Neutral and Grounding

Connect the neutral wire to the neutral bus bar. Connect the ground wire to the grounding bar. Re-energize the panel to complete the new circuit.

GFCI Protection

NEC requires new outdoor outlets to have GFCI protection. Wire a GFCI outlet or breaker for the outdoor receptacle at the beginning of the new circuit you just installed.

Running a dedicated line with GFCI protection from the panel allows your new weatherproof exterior outlet to be completely up to current electrical code.

Electrical Code Requirements

It’s important to follow the applicable sections of the National Electrical Code (NEC) when installing any new wiring and outdoor electrical outlets. Key requirements include:

GFCI Protection

Outdoor outlets must have GFCI protection. This is usually achieved by using a GFCI outlet or GFCI circuit breaker (NEC 210.8(A)(3)).

Weatherproof Box & Cover

Exterior boxes and outlet covers must be weatherproof rated to protect against moisture (NEC 314.15).

Conduit Required

Wiring to outdoor fixtures requires rigid metal conduit or intermediate conduit (NEC 300.5(B)).

Wire Type

THWN, THHN/THWN-2, etc. wires are approved for wet locations (NEC 310.8(C)).

Burial Depth

Underground conduit must be buried at least 6 inches deep (NEC 300.5).

Overcurrent Protection

Circuit wiring to the outdoor outlet must be sized and breakered appropriately to protect against overloads.

Consult your local municipal codes for any additional requirements before performing electrical work. Following NEC guidelines ensures safety.

Tips for Installing Outdoor Conduit and Outlets

Here are some helpful tips to get the job done right based on experience:

Choose location wisely – Pick areas shielded from weather or physical damage.
Use sturdy boxes – Outdoor boxes must be durable and water-tight.
Ven�l�te conduit – This prevents moisture buildup inside the conduit line.
Caulk generously – Seal all exterior holes, conduits, gaps to prevent water intrusion.
Consider wire length – Avoid voltage drop by keeping wire runs as short as possible.
Use wall seals – Foam sealants around wires entering the outlet box block moisture.
Confirm GFCI works – Test the GFCI outlet or breaker monthly to verify protection.
Label clearly – Label circuit breakers to simplify future troubleshooting.
Check grounding – Ensure all exposed metals have good continuity with ground wire.

Following the proper process when installing conduit and exterior electrical boxes will result in an outdoor outlet that works well for years to come.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While installing an outdoor outlet with conduit is a relatively straightforward job, it’s important to avoid some key mistakes:

Using indoor outlet – Exterior outlet must be weatherproof rated.
Forgetting GFCI – Outdoor outlets require GFCI protection for safety.
Undersized wire – Wire must be sized for circuit amperage to avoid fire risk.
Leaving gaps – All connections and seals must be watertight.
Surface conduit – Conduit on exterior must be buried to meet codes.
Wrong depth – Not burying conduit deep enough makes it prone to damage.
Ignoring permits – Electrical permit may be required; check local codes.
Overlooking electrical testing – Always test wires for power before touching and test outlet before use.
Skimping on wire staples – Staples securely every 1-2 feet as required.
Missing concrete seals – Seal around conduit penetrations through foundations.

By paying attention to detail and following code, you can avoid these common issues on your outdoor outlet installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some common questions on installing outdoor outlets with conduit:

Can I install an outdoor outlet myself?

Yes, in most cases homeowners can safely install outdoor outlets if they follow proper safety and electrical codes. Make sure to get any required permits.

What size conduit do I need?

1/2″ conduit is suitable for a typical 15 or 20 amp outdoor outlet circuit. 3/4″ may be required for longer conduit runs over 50 feet.

How deep should outdoor conduit be buried?

Underground conduit must be buried at least 6 inches deep according to NEC 300.5. Deeper is better for protection.

Can I use PVC conduit outdoors?

PVC Schedule 40 or 80 conduit is rated for both underground and direct burial as well as exposure to sunlight.

Should I use THHN or UF cable?

THWN and THHN wire is approved for use in conduit to outdoor outlets. Underground feeder (UF) is not since it is not rated for wet locations.

How do I waterproof an outdoor outlet?

Use a weatherproof extra duty GFCI outlet and weatherproof cover. Caulk all openings on box before installing outlet.

What size wire do I use for an outdoor outlet?

For a 15 amp outdoor outlet, use #12 AWG copper wire minimum. For 20 amp outlet, use #10 AWG wire.

Do I need a GFCI outlet or GFCI breaker?

Either method provides the required GFCI protection on outdoor outlet circuits per NEC. Choose based on preference.

How much does it cost to install an outdoor outlet?

In materials only, between $100-200 typically for a DIY outlet install. Professional install ranges $200-500 including labor.

Conclusion

Installing an outdoor outlet with protective conduit is a great DIY project for most homeowners that can provide convenience and functionality. By following basic safety procedures and NEC electrical codes, you can create a compliant and robust outdoor outlet setup. The instructions and tips in this guide will help you avoid mistakes and understand the steps necessary to install exterior outlets and wiring like a professional. Just take your time, be diligent, and use the proper materials to reap the benefits of an outdoor receptacle done right.

How to Choose an Outdoor Outlet Cover

Choosing the right weatherproof cover is critical to protecting any new outdoor electrical outlet. The outlet cover safeguards the receptacle from moisture, dirt, physical damage and other outdoor elements that could otherwise lead to hazards or malfunction. This guide will examine the key factors in picking the ideal outdoor outlet cover to safely shield your exterior power outlet from the environment.

Weatherproof vs Weather Resistant Covers

The first major consideration is deciding between a weatherproof or merely weather resistant outlet cover. The National Electrical Code requires that all outdoor receptacles have weatherproof boxes and covers, not just weather resistant. Here is the key difference:

Weather Resistant – Seals against moisture falling straight down vertically. Minimal protection.
Weatherproof – Seals on all edges and openings to prevent moisture ingress from any direction. Meets NEC code for exterior outlets.

Weatherproof covers form a complete gasket seal around the receptacle opening, preventing water from entering even when hit from the side by rain or sprinklers. Weather resistant covers have an overhang to repel minimal drips but are not fully sealed on the edges. Spend the couple extra dollars to get a weatherproof rated exterior outlet cover for full safety and code compliance.

Material Choices

Outdoor outlet covers come in a variety of durable materials:

Plastic – Inexpensive but more prone to damage and deterioration long-term.
Stainless Steel – Provides the best corrosion resistance for coastal and humid climates.
Cast Aluminum – Very durable but generally the most expensive option.
Polycarbonate – Strong impact resistance and good weathering capabilities.

Stainless steel covers hold up best over decades of exposure to corrosive salt air and extreme weather patterns. Plastic covers work adequately in milder climates but the heavier metal options are worth the investment for critical applications.

Openings and Style

Outdoor outlet covers come with different opening configurations:

Vertical Sliding Cover – Provides protection while easily allowing cords to be plugged in.
Horizontal Hinged Cover – Opens sideways and lies flat when in use.
Single Lid – Basic plastic covers with hinged lid for overhead protection.
Locking Covers – Prevent unauthorized access with key or combination lockable covers.

Consider how you will need to access the outlet when choosing the type of cover opening. The spring-loaded sliding cover provides the best blend of protection and easy accessibility in most cases. Locking covers add security where needed.

Important Features

Look for these key features when selecting an outdoor receptacle cover:

Gasket Seal – Complete weather stripping to block moisture from all sides.
UV Protection – Guards against sunlight degradation for plastic covers.
Impact Resistance – Durable covers withstand damage from bumps or debris.
Self-Closing Lid – Springs should fully close lid when outlets are not in use.
Corrosion Resistance – Stainless steel provides the best protection for outdoors.
Mounting Hardware – External conduit openings and durable attachment screws.

Choosing an outlet cover that is impact resistant and completely gasket sealed with UV inhibitors will provide the best defense against harsh outdoor elements.

Code Compliance

Ensure any outlet cover you choose is designed for exterior use and meets the following National Electrical Code standards:

Extra Duty Rated – Approved for wet, damp locations according to UL Standard 514A.
Weatherproof Gasket – Sealed to prevent moisture ingress when outlet not in use. UL Listed.
UV Stabilized – Protection against damage caused by sunlight exposure.
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