Underground wiring to pump

6922 Views 10 Replies 7 Participants Last post by J. V., Apr 29, 2009

rolltested

Discussion Starter · Apr 28, 2009

I need to run an electrical line from the 200amp meter to a 230V well pump. The distance from the meter to the well is 800ft. I have several questions that I hope I can get some help on.

1. I'm wondering what is a better type of installation for this distance. Running conduit and installing the wire or installing direct bury wire?
2. Which is cheaper - direct bury or Conduit installation
3. what size wire will I need for direct bury to run that distance and carry the needed voltage?
4. what size wire will I need for the conduit installation to run that distance and carry the needed voltage?
5. What depth do I need to install the conduit if I run the line on my property. I'm in Florida.
Thanks in advance for any information !!!

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220/221

· #2 · Apr 28, 2009

Conduit is always better because stuff happens. 18" depth.

800 feet is a long ass trench :yes:

Here is a voltage drop calculator. Find out the amperage on your pump and plug it in. It looks like #4's will carry a 10 amp load 800 feet with a voltage drop of only 2%

#6's will lose over 3% and that is a touch too much IMO.

http://www.electrician2.com/calculators/vd_calculator_initial.html

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kbsparky

· #3 · Apr 28, 2009

CHECK the rating of that motor. Many motors which are rated at 230 Volts, are also compatible with a 208 volt supply. You may have to ask the manufacturer.

If that is the case, your wire size may not have to be increased as much.

Another option would be to install a buck/boost transformer instead.

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frenchelectrican

· #4 · Apr 28, 2009

Before I can able give the answer here need to know what size pump motor the reason why it will affect the slection of conductor size.

800 Foot is pretty long run there.

Merci,Marc

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hayewe farm

· #5 · Apr 28, 2009 (Edited)

For a 10 amp motor I think #6's would be OK, It's still well with in the operating range for almost any 10 amp motor.

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InPhase277

· #6 · Apr 28, 2009

Set a meter out at the pump house. The extra cost of the metering charge is nothing compared to the pipe, wire, and labor required to power it from the house.

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J. V.

· #7 · Apr 28, 2009

hayewe farm said:
I think #6's would be OK, It's still well with in the operating range for almost any motor.

What if the motor is 50 hp. How can you make a judgement call like that when you have no idea what he has. #6 could very well be to SMALL.

"It's still well with in the operating range for almost any motor".
What????????? :whistling2:

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frenchelectrican

· #8 · Apr 28, 2009

hayewe farm said:
I think #6's would be OK, It's still well with in the operating range for almost any motor.

IMO it is not a wise advise you just quoted here.

as few members here are very sharp they will withhold the answer until the OP give the motor size that is the key word that will really affect the conductor sizing espcally with that kind of distance.

Merci,Marc

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