How to Easily Run Electrical Wires Underground for Garden Lighting

Introduction

Installing low-voltage lighting in your garden can transform the look and feel of your outdoor space. Rather than running unsightly wires above ground, running the wiring underground is an easy way to keep things neat and tidy. This article will walk you through the complete process of running electrical wires underground for garden lighting.

Things You Will Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the necessary materials and tools:

• Low-voltage outdoor lighting fixtures and transformers
• Underground electrical wire rated for direct burial
• Underground PVC conduits and fittings
• Shovel and digging tools
• Wire strippers and cutters
• Voltmeter
• Exterior caulk/sealant

The specific materials you need will depend on the number and type of lighting fixtures in your setup. When purchasing wire, conduits, and other electrical components, consult an electrician or hardware store expert to ensure everything is properly rated and sized for your system.

Planning the Layout

Carefully plan out where you want to place each lighting fixture in the garden. Consider what areas you want to highlight or illuminate. Decide where the wiring will run underground to connect each light.

Here are some layout tips:

• Draw a simple diagram of the lighting plan from an overhead view
• Place lights to highlight key trees, plants, or hardscapes
• Outline the paths the wiring will follow underground

Proper planning is crucial to ensure you purchase the correct amounts of lighting, wire, and conduit. It also makes installation much simpler.

Digging the Trenches

Once your lighting plan is set, it's time to dig the trenches for the wires.

Tools Needed

• Shovel
• Gardening spade
• Trowel

How to Dig

• Outline the trench paths with string and stakes
• Remove any grass or plants along the planned routes
• Dig trenches 6-12 inches deep and 4-6 inches wide

Digging deeper provides better protection for the wires. The trenches should follow the paths between each light fixture based on your lighting plan.

Safety Tips

• Call 811 before digging to locate any buried utility lines
• Wear gloves and eye protection when digging
• Use extreme caution when digging near other utilities

Running the Conduit Pipes

After digging the trenches, you can install the electrical conduits that will house the wires underground:

Steps for Installing Conduits

1. Measure and cut the PVC conduit pipes to the needed lengths using a hacksaw
2. Place conduits end-to-end in the bottom of the trenches
3. Join conduit sections using slip couplings and solvent glue
4. Place pull boxes in runs longer than 100 feet for easier wire pulling
5. Attach cover caps on any stubbed-out conduit ends

Conduit provides protection for the wiring and makes it easy to pull the conductors through. Use sweeps and elbows as needed to route around corners and obstacles.

Feeding the Wires Through the Conduits

With the conduits laid in the trenches, you can start running the electrical wires:

Running the Wires

• Use wire rated for direct underground burial
• Feed cables through conduits from light to light
• Leave ~2 ft of extra wire at both ends
• Use wire lubricant if pulling multiple wires through a conduit

Take care not to kink or damage the wire insulation while pulling through the conduits. Wear gloves to protect your hands.

Splicing Wires

• Use waterproof direct burial wire connectors
• Allow extra slack at splice points to work with wires
• Wrap connections in electrical tape for additional protection

Moisture is a top concern for underground connections. Take steps to ensure all splices stay dry and corrosion-free.

Connecting the Light Fixtures

After running wiring to each fixture location:

• Connect lights to wires following manufacturer instructions
• Attach waterproof gel-filled wire nuts to connect all wires
• Anchor lights securely into soil or hardscape
• Caulk around any fixtures placed in walls or pavers

Double check that all fixtures are wired properly before restoring power. Consult wiring diagrams as needed.

Restoring the Area

Once the light fixtures are wired and connected, finish up:

• Backfill the trenches with the excavated soil
• Pack down the backfill to match surrounding grade
• Replant any grass or plants that were disturbed
• Test lights to ensure proper operation before bedding

Take care to avoid settling trenches which could leave unsafe depressions. Inspect the area thoroughly once restored and make any needed adjustments.

Conclusion

When installed properly, running your garden lighting wires underground provides a clean look and sturdy protection. Plan things out, take your time, and use quality materials to ensure success. Wired lighting enables stunning nighttime displays in your garden and yard.