What cable do I need to run power to my shed?

One of the most frequently asked questions is what outdoor electrical cable do I need to power my shed? The answer is armoured cable.

Can I run a power cable to my shed?





Running electricity to your shed above ground is possible. One way of doing this is to run armoured cable from an adaptable junction box at the side of your house to your shed. However, maintenance work could disturb the cable in future. Overground cables can look unsightly too.

Does shed wiring need to be in conduit?

It is the right wire for home wiring and for my needs in my shed. Make sure that the wire is inside the conduit before you start the installation. I became aware that it is against electrical codes to use sheathed cable inside a conduit.

Does outdoor electrical wire need to be in conduit?

Low-voltage (no more than 30 volts) wiring must be buried at least 6 inches deep. Buried wiring runs that transition from underground to above ground must be protected in conduit from the required cover depth or 18 inches to its termination point above ground, or at least 8 feet above grade.

Can I use normal cable outside?

Electrical cables are deemed suitable for outdoor use provided they have adequate protection against direct sunlight and other external extremities.

How can I run electricity to my shed from my house?





Start with a Switch

  1. The NEC requires a means, such as a single-pole switch, to disconnect the power where it enters the shed. …
  2. Connect the wires inside the shed to a switch.
  3. Run wires from the switch to a GFCI receptacle, and from there to the rest of the outlets or lights in your shed.


Can you run armored cable outside?

These cables can be installed either indoors or outdoors and in exposed and concealed locations. They can be direct buried, where identified for such use. They can be installed in a cable tray or in any raceway.

What wire can I run outside?

Exposed or buried wiring/cable must be listed for its application. Type UF cable is the most commonly used nonmetallic cable for residential outdoor wiring runs. UF cable can be direct-buried (without conduit) with a minimum of 24 inches of earth cover.

Can you run electric cable on outside wall?



There are two ways to run electrical wiring on the exterior walls of a house or other structure. One method is to run individual wires in a conduit system such as intermediate conduit, rigid conduit or schedule 40 or 80 vinyl conduit. The second method is to run cable.