Expert: Dan Griffin - 5/23/2009

Question
In a rural (no codes to meet) area, I want to run sufficient electricity (for three 20 amp circuits) from a home to a cabin (about 1500 feet across a field). I prefer underground inside PVC. I have a tractor and can make a trench. What size wire do I buy to run 110 volt and how do I buy 1500 feet in bulk?

Thank you very much.  Tom

Answer
Tom, the utility company may be a good source for direct burial wire.  Many have gone to contracting this work out, but may be happy to refer you to their contractor.  They would be buying the materials at a cheaper rate than you could possibly get and may be willing to sell you what you need.  The wire may be oversized for your present need, but I bet you end up being glad you did.  The voltage drop due to distance will eat you up on wire size.  I'll bet you are looing at 350 MCM if you run in 240, larger at 110.  I am not an electrician and the answers I give, while factual, are not meant for construction.

A PVC conduit is a good idea if there is the potential of digging, but the direct burial cable is mighty tuff stuff.  You might also consider having the utility company extend the power and add another meter, but for that small use they well may not.