Photo: Jack Gittoes

Is PVC conduit OK for underground?

PVC conduit is often used in underground and wet location applications where electrical cables need to be protected. Because it's UV tested and rated, it can be used in locations where it will be exposed to UV rays.

commercial-industrial-supply.com - The Difference Between Plumbing PVC and Electrical Conduit PVC

Can you use a bucket of water with a pressure washer?

In general, only specific pressure washers can use water from a bucket. Additionally, you need a pressure washer suction hose. Pressure washers...

Last updated May 24, 2021

How do you make a shed livable?

Top Ways To Turn A Shed Into A living Space Run power to the shed for lights, electronics & HVAC. Choose a way to climate control – Heating &...

Last updated Jun 28, 2022

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a combination of plastic and vinyl that is used to make PVC pipes. These popular types of pipes are commonly used in plumbing as an alternative to more expensive copper piping. PVC is also used to produce electrical conduit. While regular PVC and electrical conduit PVC are both made from the same type of plastic, they are not the same thing, nor should they be used for the same applications. Each should only be used as it is intended and not interchangeably. Let’s take a look at five key differences between plumbing PVC and electrical conduit PVC.

How PVC Pipe and PVC Conduit Differ

The following are five major ways that PVC and conduit PVC differ:

Tested for Pressure

One of the biggest differences between plumbing PVC pipe (here) and PVC electrical conduit is that PVC pipes are pressure tested and PVC conduit isn’t. This means that PVC pipe and PVC conduit cannot be used interchangeably. Because plumbing piping systems must be able to withstand water pressure to be effective and work properly, pipes that are tested and rated for pressure must be used. The pressure rating is printed on plumbing PVC pipe. PVC conduit isn’t approved to use in plumbing applications because it isn’t pressure tested, making the chances of leaking higher.

Wall Thickness

Another difference that you’ll find between PVC pipe and PVC conduit, is in the thickness of the wall of the pipe. The wall of plumbing PVC pipe is typically thicker than the wall of PVC conduit. Because plumbing PVC is used in applications that have pressure to consider, the added thickness ensures that the pipe is strong enough to resist bending and that it will remain undamaged and intact. Conduit PVC isn’t required to withstand as much pressure, so it isn’t made with walls that are thick – that simply wouldn’t be a cost-effective design for manufacturers.

Color

The most noticeable difference between regular PVC and electrical PVC is the color of the pipes. PVC pipe that is used for plumbing is usually white while electrical conduit PVC is usually gray. These are the standard colors, but you can find PVC that has had chemical additives added during the manufacturing process to create different colored pipes. Be aware that Schedule 80 PVC piping is also gray in color like PVC conduit piping, but Schedule 80 is a plumbing pipe, similar to the white Schedule 40 PVC piping. Therefore, Schedule 80 pipes should not be used as an electrical conduit. If you're curious to learn more about the differences between Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 plumbing PVC pipes, read our post here.

How steep Can concrete be poured?

Now, a caveat: One-quarter inch drop per foot is the standard measurement for concrete drainage. Depending on the surrounding conditions and the...

Last updated Sep 9, 2019

What materials do I need for a 8x10 shed?

Material and Cut List FLOOR. 9 – 2×6 Pressure Treated Lumber: 7′-9″ ... WALLS. 41 – 2×4 Lumber: 7′-4 1/2″ ... SIDINGS. 10 – 4′ x 8′ Plywood Siding...

Last updated May 21, 2018

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

Weatherproof Tested

Plumbing PVC is most often situated indoors or underground, therefore it isn’t rated for ultraviolet light exposure. In fact, ultraviolet rays are harmful to this type of PVC, making it unsuitable for use in rooftop applications or areas where it may be exposed to the weather. It can become brittle and cracked when exposed. On the other hand, electrical conduit PVC is tested and rated for UV exposure, which means that it is suitable for outdoor waterproofing applications in which electrical cables need to be run across rooftops or up the sides of buildings.

Applications

All of the above differences indicate that while PVC plumbing pipe and PVC electrical conduit are similar, they are not appropriate for each other’s applications. They have been manufactured to serve different purposes. PVC pipe’s main purpose is for use in plumbing situations, which is why it is pressure tested. It’s suited for use in drain, water, and ventilation systems. You are also likely to find PVC pipe used in sewage systems. It shouldn’t be used in places where it will be exposed to the elements, as it isn’t UV rated and will become damaged. Electrical conduit PVC’s main purpose is for use in electrical systems as a housing for electrical wires or cables. PVC conduit is often used in underground and wet location applications where electrical cables need to be protected. Because it’s UV tested and rated, it can be used in locations where it will be exposed to UV rays. To learn more about the sun's effects on PVC piping, check out this post.

Plumbing and Electrical Conduit PVC Piping: Strong, Reliable Products

Both plumbing PVC and conduit PVC are great options for use in the home or commercially. They are durable, versatile, and cost-effective to use. However, it’s essential to use them each in the manner they were designed for. Regular PVC pipe shouldn’t be used in electrical applications, and PVC conduit won’t work well in plumbing situations. But when you use them correctly, they are both effective and reliable.

commercial-industrial-supply.com - The Difference Between Plumbing PVC and Electrical Conduit PVC

Why do dogs eat bamboo?

Bamboo shoots are a fantastic source of vitamins vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is essential to a dog's health; it's present in their coat, muscles,...

Last updated Jan 18, 2020

How do I turn my shed into a summer house?

How to turn your garden shed into a summerhouse Clear away the clutter. Find a new home for the contents of your shed. ... Prepare your space....

Last updated Dec 12, 2018

Promotion

Does overhang count as square footage?

In some municipalities, vaulted ceilings will double the square footage of a room. In other places, porches, overhangs and pergola areas will count...

Last updated Feb 14, 2021

Promotion

Is building a home office tax deductible?

The Simplified Option Instead of keeping records of all of your expenses, you can deduct $5 per square foot of your home office, up to 300 square...

Last updated Jan 9, 2022