If you don’t have any outlets near your home, burying an extension cord outside can be a really practical solution. In this article we’ll answer all your questions about how-to burial practices and what you should consider before going through with them! We also have some tips to help you use buried cords safely and easily. So read below today – because safety always comes first.
Can You Bury an Outdoor Extension Cord?
The quick answer is yes, you can bury an outdoor extension cord underground, but we don’t recommend it.
Extension cords are actually made to be buried, but they will degrade quickly when exposed to the elements. Water and dirt can make your hardwood floors less durable. Sunlight can also damage them over time.
A better solution is to use an underground wire or cable. These burial cords are made specifically to last longer than regular cords. [2]
Is It Legal To Bury an Extension Cord?
The answer to this question is a bit complicated. It depends on where you live and what the building code is in your area. In some places, it is perfectly legal to bury an extension cord. However, in other places, it is against the law.
If you are unsure about the laws in your area, it is best to check with your local building code office. They will be able to tell you whether or not it is legal to bury an extension cord in your yard.
Burying an extension cord may seem like a good idea at first, but there are some things you need to think about. The weight and length of your buried cables will affect how long they can stay underground.
If they are too heavy or too long, it will be difficult for them to stay underground or it might be impossible. You also want to make sure that any areas where these wires go through soil are not under too much pressure. This is important so the wires do not get damaged, like when this guy tried burying one under his lawn. [1]
Can You Bury Any Extension Cord?
The first thing to consider is what type of extension cord you have. Most cords are not made to be buried, so before you start digging, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions.
If your extension cord is made to be buried, then you can proceed with burial. However, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.
- First, always bury the cord at least six inches below the ground. This will help protect the cord from damage and weathering.
- Second, make sure that the area where you bury the cord is free of rocks, roots, and other obstructions. These can damage the cord over time.
- Finally, always use a waterproof junction box to protect any connections you make underground.
Can You Bury Wire Without Conduit?
If you’re thinking about burying an extension cord without conduit, the answer is a resounding no. While it might seem like a good idea to save on materials and labor by skipping the conduit, it’s not worth the risk. Burying wire without conduit leaves it vulnerable to damage from moisture, animals, and plant growth. Even if you bury the wire deep enough to avoid these hazards, it will still be at risk of damage from underground utility work.
If you’re set on burying an extension cord, the best way to do it is with conduit. Conduit protects buried wire from being damaged. If the wire is damaged, it is easier to repair or replace it with the help of conduit.
There are several types of conduit available, but the most common type used for buried applications is PVC conduit. PVC conduit is made from a durable plastic that can withstand years of exposure to the elements. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to work with.
When installing PVC conduit, be sure to use PVC primer and cement designed for buried applications. These products are specially formulated to resist the effects of moisture and will help ensure a watertight seal.
Once the conduit is in place, you can run your extension cord through it and bury it under a layer of soil. Make sure there is enough slack in the cord so it can move without being too tight and hurting the wire. [1]
Can You Use an Extension Cord Permanently?
No, you cannot use an extension cord permanently. Though it may seem like a cheap and easy solution to your problem – which could potentially lead to fires- this is not safe! If needed temporarily though follow all precautions carefully so as not cause any other problems with safety in mind.
Extension cords are an easy way to get power opened up in your home, but they’re not meant as a permanent solution. If you need more outlets and circuits for things like appliance timers or window blinds, it is best to install more products instead of using these short-term fixes on extension leads.
Extension cords can be a real fire hazard if not used properly. If an extension cord is overloaded, it could overheat and start burning! When using these devices outdoors or near other objects that might catch on fire easily (like paper), always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use. Don’t take any risks with your safety.
When using an extension cord, make sure to:
- Use the correct size cord for the appliance or tool you are using.
- Do not use more than one extension cord at the same time.
- Make sure the extension cord is plugged into the outlet properly.-Do not run the cord under carpets or doorways.
- Keep the cord away from heat sources.
- Inspect the cord before you use it. If it is damaged, do not use it.
- When you are finished using an extension cord, unplug it from the outlet.
If you must use an extension cord permanently, there are some safe practices you can follow:
- Use heavy-duty extension cords for high-wattage appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators.
- Make sure the extension cord is properly rated for the appliance or tool you are using.
- Replace any worn or damaged cords immediately.
- If you plug in too many devices, the circuit will overload and it could cause a fire.
- Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to protect yourself from electrical shocks. [1]
How To Bury an Outdoor Extension Cord?
The options for running an extension cord outdoors are simple to understand, but there’s more than one way of doing it. There are two ways to avoid people tripping on your cords. You can either keep them above ground or bury them underground. If you bury them underground, make sure that they are deep enough so that people won’t see them. But this option will require more work, like installing them in a different way.
If you decide to bury your extension cord, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- First, make sure the cord is rated for underground use. Most standard extension cords are not rated for underground use and will not be durable enough to withstand the elements.
- Second, you’ll need to dig a trench for the cord to run through. The trench doesn’t need to be very deep, about six inches should suffice.
- Finally, you’ll need to cover the cord with dirt or mulch once it’s in place.
One final note on running extension cords outdoors. If at all possible, avoid running the cord across areas where people will be walking or driving. Not only is this a trip hazard, but it can also be dangerous if the cord gets damaged. If you must run the cord across a walkway or driveway, make sure to use an outdoor-rated conduit to protect the cord from damage. [3]
Step by Step Guide
First, you’ll need to purchase a burial-rated extension cord.
Once you have all of your materials, follow these steps to bury your extension cord:
- Plan Your Route – Decide where you need to run the extension cord and plan accordingly. Avoid running the cord under trees, shrubs, or other heavy objects that could crush it.
- Dig Your Trench – Using your spade or shovel, dig a trench that’s about six inches deep and wide enough to fit your extension cord.
- Run the Cord – Carefully thread the cord through the trench, being careful not to kink or damage it.
- Secure the Cord – Once the cord is in place, use wire ties to secure it to a nearby fence post or other object. This will prevent it from moving around and getting damaged.
- Fill in the Trench – Carefully fill in the trench, being sure not to damage the cord. Once the trench is filled, you’re all done!
With just a little bit of effort, you can easily bury an extension cord and keep it safe from damage. Just be sure to follow the steps above and use the proper materials, and you’ll be good to go. [3]
FAQ
Can I Run an Outdoor Extension Cord Underground?
The great thing about running an outdoor extension cord underground is that you can go right up to 12 inches deep and not fear for your voltage! You can seal any exposed openings with waterproof electrical tape or conduit. You should also leave slack in the wire so it’s easy to fix if something goes wrong.
Make sure that your extension cord is rated for underground use. This is because regular cords are not meant to be used in wet or exposed areas. If you use a regular extension cord, it will quickly degrade and become a safety hazard.
There are a few different types of underground extension cords that you can choose from, so be sure to do your research to find the one that best suits your needs.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an underground extension cord:
- The cable should be made from heavy-duty materials like PVC or rubber.
- The insulation should be thick and durable.
- The cord should be resistant to moisture, abrasion, and sunlight.
- The cord should be able to handle high temperatures.
- Look for a cord that is UL or ETL listed.
What Extension Cord Can Be Buried?
While you can technically bury any extension cord, not all cords are made equal. Some extension cords are not durable enough to be buried underground. They will break down quickly if they are buried. For this reason, it’s important to choose a cord that is specifically designed for burial.
Direct burial wire is a type of extension cord that can be used for underground installations. The heavy-duty insulation and waterproof jacket protect the wires from moisture or damage as they go through earth, making this an ideal choice for installations that need to last longer than normal.
The best way to prevent your outdoor buried cord from being damaged by animals is by using UF (underground feeder) cable. This jacket is perfect for people who have a dog that likes to chew on things. The insulation and waterproofing will make sure that their wires don’t get damaged.
When you need an extension cord that will last, look no further than this metal core option. This type of durable and pest-resistant cords was made for all your outdoor needs.
Can You Bury an Electrical Cord?
If you’re running an extension cord through your yard to power an outdoor appliance or light, you may be wondering if it’s safe to bury the cord. The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to remember.
- First, make sure the cord is rated for outdoor use.
- Second, bury the cord at least six inches underground.
- And third, use a waterproof connector to join the cord to the power source.
With these simple tips, you can safely and easily bury an extension cord in your yard. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and always consult a qualified electrician if you have any questions or concerns.
How Do I Hide an Extension Cord in My Yard?
If you need to keep an extension cord hidden in your yard, there are a few ways that you can do so. One option is to bury the cord underground. This can be done by trenching a shallow hole along the route that you need the cord to go. Be sure to use a heavy-duty extension cord that is rated for outdoor use and bury it at least six inches underground.
Another option is to run the cord along the edge of your property, underneath bushes or through PVC pipes. This will keep the cord hidden from view and protected from weather damage.
You can also use extension cord covers to conceal cords that are running across your lawn. These covers are typically made of durable plastic and can be found in a variety of colors to match your home’s exterior. Simply place the cord inside the cover and then bury it underground or run it along the edge of your property.
If you have an extension cord that is not being used, be sure to store it safely away from weather damage and potential hazards. Check the cord periodically to make sure it is in good condition and replace it if necessary.
Useful Video: The Easiest Way to Bury Cable Or Wire Underground
Conclusion
We hope this article has answered your question about burying an outside extension cord in the yard. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to ask them in the comments section below and we will do our best to provide a response. Thank you for reading!
References:
- https://yardpit.com/can-you-bury-extension-cord/
- https://backyardway.com/bury-outside-extension-cord-in-yard/
- https://yardsumo.com/can-you-bury-an-extension-cord-outside/