How to Install PVC Conduit

As long as your home has electrical wires, it also has an electrical conduit. Acting as a safe tube to thread active wires through, the electrical conduit is essential and it comes in a variety of materials. Hard metal conduit is commonly used, but cannot bend around sharp corners and tight spaces. For that, you would want to use a non-metal conduit, such as PVC. Below, we show you how to fit together PVC conduit pipes for an electrical system that will fit your home. This specific set of steps does not require any electrical work, so homeowners of any skill set should feel comfortable performing this task.

Flexible Nonmetallic Conduit

Have a salesperson help you assemble all the parts you need: conduit, couplings, elbows, sweeps, and PVC boxes. Connect to a metal box using a terminal adapter.

Flexible plastic tubing is a convenient way to channel wiring. Blue corrugated EMT tubing is used for indoor installations; moisture-impermeable tubing is used outdoors. Both come in long coils. Check to see whether your local codes allow these products.

How to Install PVC Conduit

Step 1: Cut Box

Install PVC boxes, then measure and mark the conduit for a cut. Cut with a backsaw and miter box, a hacksaw, or a circular saw equipped with a plywood blade.

Step 2: Prep Fittings

Use alignment marks to ensure that the pieces face in the correct direction. Apply PVC primer (if needed) and cement to the outside of the conduit and to the inside of the fitting.

Step 3: Insert Conduit

Immediately push the conduit into the fitting, twisting slightly to align the marks. Hold the pieces together for about 10 seconds; wipe away excess cement.