{"id":239,"date":"2020-12-15T13:06:36","date_gmt":"2020-12-15T13:06:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cohesivehomes.com\/?p=239"},"modified":"2023-09-27T04:16:37","modified_gmt":"2023-09-27T04:16:37","slug":"romex-wire-conduit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cohesivehomes.com\/romex-wire-conduit","title":{"rendered":"Can You Strip Romex & Run It in a Conduit?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When it comes to DIY electrical projects, one of the favorite points inspectors look at is the proper use of wires for outdoor and indoor application. And when it comes to heavy duty wiring, Romex is well-known because of its cost-effectiveness, versatility, and utility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The application of Romex wires is limitless, but most DIY-ers often find themselves confused about whether they can strip Romex and use it in a conduit outdoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The answer is generally yes<\/em><\/strong><\/em>. The National Electrical Code (NEC) calls for all non-metallic wires to be used in conduits to avoid protection from physical damage; especially if stripped. However, there are some other intricacies involved here as well, including the ANSI markings of stripped wires, which we\u2019ll discuss in detail below. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Disclaimer: Electrical installations and modifications should only be carried out by a competent, trained person. If you are unsure about any steps in a DIY electrical project, it is always better to call in a qualified electrician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Romex Wire \u2013 What Is It Really?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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\"Romex
Romex wire which is stripped at one end<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

A bit about Romex; it is a brand \u2013 perhaps the most renowned brand \u2013 name for non-metallic wires. Romex company is the inventor of these non-metallic cables, rolling their first batch out in 1922. NEC found use of these wires in 1926, and in the 1960s, these wires became prevalent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The wiring systems of most houses built or rewired after 1965 contain NM sheathed cables, or as they are more commonly known as, Romex cables. These wires are known for their cost-effectiveness and flexibility, featuring a plastic sheathing. There are two insulated wires \u2013 positive and negative \u2013 and one bare copper ground wire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This copper wire is what gets exposed if the wire gets damaged, thus leading to other problems. This is why when stripping Romex wires and running them, it is best to use a weather-resistant conduit \u2013 especially outdoors <\/strong>or near utility lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The outer sheathing is made of woven rayon and the wires inside are bonded by paper, which is much better than the older plastic sheathing. This insulation is extremely flexible, which makes the wire much easier to use. The wire itself is inexpensive while offering good overall protection. Just remember, it\u2019s not the most protective wire out there; just better than many.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The sheathing used to be white but today, these wires have a color-coded sheeting to help identify gauge of the cable. There are three gauges and colors you can find:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  • 14-gauge wire<\/strong>. This wire has a white sheathing outside and is used mostly for 15-amp circuits \u2013 the standard circuits around the house for your appliances such as fans, lamps, your laptop, phone, and more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • 12-gauge wire. <\/strong>This wire has a yellow sheathing outside and is used mostly for 20-amp circuits. These circuits can handle up to 2,500 Watts, thus making them suitable for heavier appliances such as air compressors, car charging, and more. These circuits are more common in commercial and industrial power distribution channels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • 10-gauge wire<\/strong>. This wire has an orange sheathing outside and is used mostly for 30-amp circuits. These circuits can handle up to 7,200 Watts, and are therefore used for running power-hungry appliances such as space heaters, deep freezers, microwaves, and more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Stripping <\/strong>a<\/strong> Romex <\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    When you strip a Romex wire, you will find that there are three wires running within the protective PVC plastic sheathing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    • A white negative wire that is wrapped with paper. You can easily tear off the wrapper after stripping it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • A black positive wire which is also wrapped with paper. Both, the white and black wires, are insulated inside the sheath.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • A bare copper grounding wire. There is also a paper wrapping around this wire.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      The goal of paper winding throughout the interior is to ensure that the wires don\u2019t stick together even after heating up. Furthermore, the paper provides the wires within the necessary flexibility during installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      The PVC plastic sheathing surrounding the insulated conductors and copper ground wire is non-conductive and heat resistant. It is average when combating outdoor conditions, hence necessitating the use of a conduit.<\/strong> When using indoors, you have the freedom to choose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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