EMT outdoors?
#1
04-17-12, 11:41 PM
EMT outdoors?
Does the current NEC allow for EMT outdoors with compression fittings? I did this back in the early 2000s and it worked just fine.
Keep in mind this would be on the side of the house and not buried.
Is there any advantage to using another form of conduit (such as IMC or rigid)?
Thanks.
Keep in mind this would be on the side of the house and not buried.
Is there any advantage to using another form of conduit (such as IMC or rigid)?
Thanks.
#2
04-18-12, 04:19 AM
If you are needing the flexibility and weather resistance, I would use a weathertite whip as opposed to smurf tubing. I am not sure how sunlight will affect smurf. Others may have ideas that differ, so hang in there.
#3
04-18-12, 05:17 AM
Member
EMT is fine outdoors with compression (rain tight) fittings. The only drawback, as far as I am concerned, is that if exposed to both sun and rain, like on a rooftop, EMT will rust within a few years. On the east side of my house I have EMT conduit that is 24 years old and it hasn't rusted. There are probably more disadvantages to using IMC or Rigid than advantages.
#4
04-18-12, 06:18 AM
Forum Topic Moderator
The EMT outside is allowed with the proper fittings. As someone said it can rust.
Rigid or IMC could also be used but need to be threaded and offer additional protection against physical damage.
PVC is easy to work with and does not rust, but can sag if not properly supported. Thermal expansion and contraction can be an issue.
Rigid or IMC could also be used but need to be threaded and offer additional protection against physical damage.
PVC is easy to work with and does not rust, but can sag if not properly supported. Thermal expansion and contraction can be an issue.
#6
04-18-12, 07:16 PM
Group Moderator
I think the rust factor depends where it is installed. Of course if exposed to salt and chemicals it will corrode sooner. In Minnesota EMT does not rust very easily. I see your in CA, so if your close to salt water, you may have an issue.
