Underground conduit

[bluedog225]

I’m going to run power from a 20’ conex solar power shack to my cabin about 75’ away. The conex will hold the charge controllers, batteries, and inverter. Split phase AC out to the cabin and a lot of the fire risk associated with DC is contained.

This is all off grid and in the country. Safe is important but no formal code or inspections. Though resale value may matter one day.

I’ve got a bunch of 2” schedule 80 pvc and some 2” rigid metal conduit.

My plan is to run a dedicated trench about 12” down. And use the rigid metal conduit under the road.

Is there any reason this is a bad idea? Even if I use underground feeder direct virtual, it seems smart to provide some protection for longevity.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Firebrick43]

I would use pvc under the road as well. Don’t bury metal, it will rust away over time, save it for above ground.

 

[Zeke]

RMC needs to be sch 80 as well. That what you have? 12" is not enough for PVC. But, it's your uninspected job.

 

[billconner]

Exactly the reason I ran rigid to my garage - 12" - versus 18 or 24 (?) for PVC. Galvanized pipe will probably outlast any of us here, so your call. I wrap the joints with Scotch 2228.

 

[bluedog225]

What’s a good safe harbor depth? 18”?

 

[billconner]

Code for PVC is - I believe - 18" of cover. I was wrong above - or forgot - rigid metal is only 6", not 12".

 

[Firebrick43]

Exactly the reason I ran rigid to my garage - 12" - versus 18 or 24 (?) for PVC. Galvanized pipe will probably outlast any of us here, so your call. I wrap the joints with Scotch 2228.

I have seen RMC rusted out in 15 years.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Just because its off grid and no inspections doesnt mean you shouldnt install it to code.

Underground metal conduit will rust. Use PVC.