How to Install Underground Electrical Cable

Use underground electrical cable, or UF, for its intended purpose in direct burial applications. It allows you the convenience of running cable from a structure to other areas across your property without the necessity of installing electrical conduit. UF cable is both moisture- and sunlight-resistant, employing a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) insulation for protection. UF cable comes in both two- and three-conductor cable for both 120-volt and 240-volt applications.

• 1

  Dig a trench 18 to 24 inches deep with a motorized trencher or a trenching shovel. Check the electrical code requirements with your city or municipality to determine the depth required in your area.

• 2

  Install electrical conduit for your underground electrical cable only where it's exposed above ground, such as the exterior wall of the structure or into an above ground electrical junction box.

• 3

  Lay your underground electric cable into the trench, threading the cable up through conduit into your structure or into an electrical fixture. UF cable ranges in size from 14-gauge to 6-gauge.

• 4

  Bury the underground electrical cable with the dirt you removed from the trench.