Running a generator line across a garage ceiling inside plastic conduit

[silver2000]

I would like to have an outside generator outlet connected to my interlock kit. I have run a 3/4" plastic conduit along the garage ceiling and secured it. My question is for the type of cable it looks to be about 30 feet with a 30amp line so it looks like I will need a 10/3 cable. From reading it appears that I will need THHN wires to make the run. But where it comes out of the pipe into my utility room I wanted to avoid running the pipe all the way to my circuit breaker panel but I dont think I can run THHN outside of conduit. Can someone help to let me know if there is any cable that can be run inside of plastic conduiit but can then be exposed for about 4 feet above my breaker panel. Basically I would like to have the last few feet be open so avoid a complex run for the conduit. Thank you

 

[pattenp]

You will need to use a junction box and switch to NM for the exposed section. And there can be issues with the NM being exposed if it is subject to possible physical damage. Or use a section of flex conduit for the last 4 feet.

Edit: The generator outlet is actually called an inlet.

 

[silver2000]

I knew there had be a reasonable way to make the transition. Thank you, I will plan it out that way. That makes sense. Thanks again

 

[ishiboo]

You will need to use a junction box and switch to NM for the exposed section. And there can be issues with the NM being exposed if it is subject to possible physical damage. Or use a section of flex conduit for the last 4 feet.

Edit: The generator outlet is actually called an inlet.

No, the generator outlet is called the outlet... stuff goes out. You plug a cord into the outlet, which then gets plugged into the inlet on the house end.

Cheapest way to do this is to run 10/3 NM the whole distance. It sounds like exposed NM 4' by the breaker is probably how all your NM is run, if subject to damage it would also need to be in conduit, but the last 4' to a main panel is almost never.

 

[silver2000]

Is NM cable the same as romex type cable, maybe I am wrong, can I run that inside of the plastic conduit.

One other thing I just thought of, is plastic conduit rigid plastic allowed on a garage ceiling, just thinking about that?

 

[pattenp]

No, the generator outlet is called the outlet... stuff goes out. You plug a cord into the outlet, which then gets plugged into the inlet on the house end.

Cheapest way to do this is to run 10/3 NM the whole distance. It sounds like exposed NM 4' by the breaker is probably how all your NM is run, if subject to damage it would also need to be in conduit, but the last 4' to a main panel is almost never.

I assumed the outlet he was talking about was the exterior inlet that the gen plugs into and was just miscalling it an outlet. I know very well the outlet that's on the gen is called an outlet.

 

[pattenp]

Is NM cable the same as romex type cable, maybe I am wrong, can I run that inside of the plastic conduit.

One other thing I just thought of, is plastic conduit rigid plastic allowed on a garage ceiling, just thinking about that?

Yes, NM is the same as Romex. Romex is a trade name. And NM/Romex can be put in conduit. You may have some people that will say you can't but it is okay by NEC. Just be sure to use conduit of a size large enough to meet the fill requirements.

Edit: 3/4" PVC Sch40 conduit will be fine for 10-3 NM.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Prob need 4 wire, 10/3 w/grd

Charles

 

[Aceman]

I'd probably just sleeve the Romex in the pvc as much as I hate to say it. It may fit 3/4", but I'd probably use 1" unless the run was straight.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I'd probably just sleeve the Romex in the pvc as much as I hate to say it. It may fit 3/4", but I'd probably use 1" unless the run was straight.

I hate 10/3 romex ! Call me a wimp, but 4 - 10 gauge solid wires are a pain to work with.

 

[silver2000]

I really appreciate the input on this. I really had hoped that I could run the romex/nm in the pvc conduit since this paticular run is almost complete straight with just one easy bend and then when it comes out by my panel I won't have to worry abouta junction box and can keep one straight run. Thanks again!