[mikiek]

I'm installing a water feature in my yard.

Here is what I would like to do...

I have a GFCI circuit and a receptacle to the left of my patio door. I will add this to it and use 14 gauge THHN wire to branch from this receptacle to my water feature.

I plan to use schedule 80 PVC pipe and I have marked on my photos where that will run.

As you can see, I would like to take it down and put underneath my door, in the gap (1/2 pipe fits with no problem) and I will only use 3x14 gauge wires (1 circuit) to the water feature. I cannot go directly underground as I have pavers, and cannot dig those up. Going up would also be a problem and add to this run.

Is this ok to do? as the pipe will be recessed into the wall, there is VERY little chance of it ever being damaged, and using schedule 80 obviously makes it stronger.

My other concern is where to mount the new receptacle. The photo shows where I would like it to be, and then I can plug my pump into this (on the outside, back of the water feature). Any concerns with this? Does it have to be a minimum height from the ground?

Also, after the schedule 80 goes under the door, it will enter through a retaining wall that slopes down very quickly (about 3ft drop over 3-4ft distance). If the pipe has to be buried, what is the minimum depth?

Due to the route, I will need to add 4 90 degree elbows. Is that ok?

I appreciate any thoughts and suggestions.

 

[seharper]

Since the line is already on the LOAD side of a GFCI device, and is <20A, your minimum cover-on-top 12". It would be 6" if you used Rigid conduit for the shallow sections.

All your bends must be sweeps, unless the bend is accessible, in which case it can be a conduit body. Only four 90s between accessible points, but 3 or more will make it a miserable pull.

Since you are feeding it from a GFCI device already, the outdoor recep needs a sticker that says "GFCI Protected".

 

[afjes2015]

and use 14 gauge THHN wire

Requires THWN rated wire if using individual conductors in conduit outdoors.
Also, be sure the PVC conduit is electrical and not plumbing. They are rated much differently. Plumbing PVC has no UV resistance to it for example.

 

[mikiek]

Thank you for the responses guys. I appreciate it.

For the type of wire, as it will be in conduit the full run, does it still need to be THWN? I cannot seem to easily find this as the big box stores. THHN is readily available, so I'm wondering why I can't find the THWN?

All my conduit is electrical schedule 80, and includes sweeps - thank you for checking on that.

Can I use UF-B cable in the same conduit (I know it will be harder to pull) instead for this project?

 

[brric]

Most wire is dual-rated THHN/THWN. You may use UF cable but it will be extremely difficult to to pull, even in 3/4” PVC.

 

[tribe_fan]

What size it the Breaker for this circuit?

 

[mikiek]

15amp. I plan to use 14 gauge.

 

[afjes2015]

Thank you for the responses guys. I appreciate it.

For the type of wire, as it will be in conduit the full run, does it still need to be THWN? I cannot seem to easily find this as the big box stores. THHN is readily available, so I'm wondering why I can't find the THWN?...

Unfortunately the individual conductors (rolls of) sold at the big stores like Home Depot and Lowes do not state on the packaging that it is rated both THHN/THWN. The rolls of conductors are shrink wrapped in clear plastic. Pick up a roll in your hand and look at the insulation on the wire itself. You will see that it is stated THWN also. Why the manufacturer does not state this on the packing I don't know.

 

[mikiek]

Thank so much everyone. You've all been very helpful and I really appreciate you taking the time to assist me. I now feel more confident to move forward, and also know a little more than I did yesterday!