which conduit can I use

Thanks for the reply to "Can I use Conduit" but does it matter which conduit I decide to use (metal or PVC) ?
Also am I correct that the conduit must be tied or run directly into the panel on one end and to the junction box in the basement on the other from which I will branch off the circuits using Romex ?

 

Usually conduit means metal conduit... but in your case I'm not sure.

 

the type of conduit for your application would be strickly a matter of choice. Normally you tend to run certain types of conduit to suit specific enviorments. Running in a normal basement would basically allow all types as long as you don't overfill it.

Pvc is most likely the most user friendly of the ridgid type of conduits as you don't need special benders to run it, but you do have to be careful on the amount of heat you place on it in order to make your bend. It is strong enough for most household applications while being waterpoof.

EMT is nice to look at when it is run properly but if your not perfectly straight when installing it, it will show. you require a good bender and mush be carefull not to overbend or crease the metal. It offer somewhat more strength then PVC but unless watertight connectors ar used is not for damp or wet locations. And it does rust and can loose its finish in time when exposed to harsh conditions

Ridgid Metal Conduit is the strongest and it is also watertight if the Stainless Steel varity is used it will hold its shine for years no matter what conditions it is used in. The down side is to run this your not only need benders you need pipe threaders and a lot of patience.

BX easiest to run and if you take your time with it and strap it properly it can be done as straight as any conduit run, no special equipment needed.

If your going to run conduit it is advisable to use it from the panel to a box then branch off if your going to finish the runs with romex.

I do caution you to make sure you use the right size for the number and type of wires you will be using. Make sure it is strapped properly for the size of conduit.

Good luck hope this helps

 

stainless steel ridgid?
john

 

You should't have too much trouble using PVC because of the number of fittings available. If you use PVC you must include a Green Equiptment Grounding Conductor that will connect to the EGC's in the Branch-Circuit cables.---Good Luck!!!!

 

If your wondering there is a stainless steel rigid conduit on the market, although it is usually used in the oil fields and food processing plants it is also used occassionally for other uses

 

in 20+ years, i've never seen ss electrical conduit., so i decided to look it up. i know why i've never seen - it's about $15/foot for the smaller sizes. i couldn't see using it in an electrical installation except in absolutely,must-have situations. i can see oil fields using it, but i've done food processing plant jobs without it. there is much ss conduit (non-electrical) used for transporting food materials, but i don't see why you'd need it for electrical.
john

 

Depends on local bylaws Some area regulate that all electrical is done in SS its a pain but thats what they want. Anyway with a mark up of 30% its a nice payday when you have to use it