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9 Best Direct Bury Electrical Wire for 2024
Modified: January 10, 2024
Discover the top 9 direct bury electrical wire options for 2023. Choose the best quality and durable wire for your outdoor electrical projects.
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Introducing the 9 Best Direct Bury Electrical Wire for 2023. When it comes to ensuring the reliable and safe connection of electricity in any project or home, choosing the right direct bury electrical wire is crucial. With numerous options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to select the best one that meets all your requirements. However, in this comprehensive guide, we have curated a list of the top 9 direct bury electrical wires for 2023. Whether you are an electrician, contractor, or simply a DIY enthusiast, this article will provide you with the necessary information and insights to make an informed decision. Stay tuned to discover the best direct bury electrical wire options for seamless electrical installations next year.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Southwire 13055926 12/2WG UF Wire is a versatile and reliable option for direct burial wiring. It features a sunlight resistant jacket that is flame retardant, moisture resistant, and corrosion resistant. This wire is primarily used in direct burial applications, making it suitable for underground feeder to outdoor lighting, exposed or concealed wiring in damp, moist, wet, dry, and corrosive locations. It is UL listed for added safety and peace of mind. With 12 gauge, 2 conductors, and a length of 100 feet per coil, this wire is made in America and offers excellent quality and durability.
Key Features
- Coated in a sunlight resistant jacket that is flame retardant, moisture, and corrosion resistant
- Primarily used in direct burial applications
- UL listed
- 12 gauge, 2 conductors with ground
- Made in America
Specifications
- Color: Copper
- Dimension: 2.00Lx10.00Wx10.00H
- Size: 100 ft
Pros
- Sunlight resistant and underground wire
- Made in America
- Versatile and reliable
- UL listed for added safety
- Excellent quality and durability
Cons
- Expensive
- Plastic package wrap may be cut open
- Short measurement in some cases
The Southwire 13055926 12/2WG UF Wire is a high-quality and versatile option for direct burial wiring. With its sunlight resistant jacket and UL listing, it offers excellent protection and safety. The wire is made in America, ensuring reliable craftsmanship. Customers have praised its durability and performance in various applications. However, some reviewers have mentioned its higher price and occasional issues with packaging or measurements. Overall, this wire is a solid choice for those in need of underground wiring, with its quality construction and reliable performance.
Overall Score: 9/10
The King Innovation 20210 DryConn GTSR Wire Connector is a 25 Count pack specifically designed for outdoor landscape lighting. These wire connectors are pre-filled with petroleum grease that never hardens, making them durable and long-lasting. The connectors have an easy-latch lid that relieves splice from stress and ensures a secure connection. They are also manufacturer approved for direct bury, making them ideal for outdoor use. Made in the USA, these connectors are of high quality and provide excellent performance.
Key Features
- Applications up to 50 Volt
- Pre-filled with a petroleum grease that never hardens
- Easy-latch lid relieves splice from stress
- Manufacturer approved for direct bury
- Made in the USA
Specifications
- Color: Tan
- Dimension: 7.25Lx10.25Wx1.00H
- Size: 25 Count (Pack of 1)
Pros
- Durable and easy to use
- Work great for direct-burial low voltage lights
- Solid connections that are waterproof
- Manufacturer approved for direct bury
Cons
- Gel can be messy
- Could come in smaller sizes
The King Innovation 20210 DryConn GTSR Wire Connector is an excellent choice for anyone in need of reliable wire connectors for outdoor landscape lighting. These connectors are extremely durable, easy to use, and provide a secure connection. The pre-filled petroleum grease ensures long-lasting performance, while the manufacturer approval for direct bury gives peace of mind for outdoor installations. The only minor drawbacks are the slight messiness of the gel and the limited size options. Overall, this product delivers on its promises and is a great investment for anyone looking for high-quality wire connectors.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The King Innovation 31556 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector in Yellow is the perfect solution for your outdoor wiring needs. With its waterproof and corrosion-proof design, this wire connector ensures a secure and reliable connection, even in challenging weather conditions. The UL 486D listing and 600V rating provide peace of mind that your wires are protected. The one-step installation eliminates the need for pre-twisting wires, making it quick and easy to use. Made in the USA, this wire connector offers superior quality and durability. Whether you're working on an invisible fence installation or any other outdoor application, the King Innovation 31556 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is a dependable choice.
Key Features
- For use in outdoor applications
- Waterproof and corrosion proof
- UL 486D listed, 600V rated
- 1 step installation with no pre-twisting of wires necessary
- Made in the USA
Specifications
- Color: Yellow
- Dimension: 5.25Lx9.50Wx1.00H
Pros
- Waterproof and corrosion proof design
- One-step installation process saves time
- Made in the USA for superior quality
Cons
- Some customers experienced breakage during installation
- Bigger in size compared to standard wire nuts
The King Innovation 31556 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is a reliable and durable solution for outdoor wiring projects. Its waterproof and corrosion-proof design ensures a secure connection, while the one-step installation process saves time and effort. Made in the USA, this wire connector offers superior quality, though it may be larger in size compared to standard wire nuts. Despite occasional breakage during installation reported by some customers, this product provides excellent value for the price. Whether you’re working on an invisible fence installation or any other outdoor application, the King Innovation 31556 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is a reliable choice for your storage needs.
Overall Score: 8/10
The USA Made Waterproof Direct Bury Wire Cable Splice Kit is the perfect solution for connecting wires in a variety of outdoor applications such as landscape lighting and irrigation systems. It is filled with Water Proof Dow Corning SP4577 Dielectric Silicone, providing maximum protection for your wires. With a maximum voltage of 600V and a wide wire gauge range from 18 to 10 AWG, this kit is versatile and reliable. The industry-leading volume resistivity and dielectric strength ensure top-notch performance. The dimensions of the kit are 9.00Lx7.00Wx3.00H. Overall, this splice kit offers excellent protection and durability for your outdoor wiring needs.
Key Features
- USA MADE – Filled with Water Proof Dow Corning SP4577 Dielectric Silicone
- Maximum Wire Gauge 10 AWG – Minimum Wire Gauge 18 AWG Features
- Industry Leading Volume Resistivity at 73°F (23°C): ohmcm 2.17 x 1015
- Industry Leading Dielectric Strength, 50 mil gap volts/mil: >450
- Maximum Voltage: 600V
Specifications
- Dimension: 9.00Lx7.00Wx3.00H
Pros
- Superior protection compared to waterproof wire nuts alone
- Works well for splice repairs in various systems
- Prevents water-induced shorts in underground installations
- Waterproof and durable construction
Cons
- Top piece (cap) can break easily
- Handling can be difficult due to slipperiness caused by grease
- Plastic hinge may be too thin and prone to breaking
- Instructions could be clearer, especially for thick wire insulation
The USA Made Waterproof Direct Bury Wire Cable Splice Kit is a reliable and durable solution for outdoor wiring connections. Its filled silicone gel provides excellent protection, and it is suitable for a variety of applications. While the handling can be a bit challenging due to the included grease, the overall performance and quality of this kit are commendable. It is a must-have for outdoor lighting, irrigation systems, and other similar projects. Just be careful with the cap and follow the instructions properly. With a score of 8 out of 10, this splice kit is a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of secure and waterproof wire connections in their outdoor setups.
Overall Score: 9/10
The 12/2 UF-B Wire is a versatile cable designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It features two soft copper conductors that provide excellent conductivity. This wire is perfect for wet or corrosive locations indoors, as it is resistant to light and moisture. It can also be used for direct earth burial outdoors, being resistant to sunlight and moisture. With a heat capacity of 90 degreesC and a voltage rating of 600-Volts, it can handle a maximum ampacity of 20 Amps. Please note that the color of the wire may vary from the picture shown. Overall, this wire offers great quality at an affordable price.
Key Features
- 12 AWG Wire with 2 Annealed (Soft) Copper (Cu) Conductors
- Used Indoors for Wet or Corrosive Locations, Resistant to Light and Moisture
- Used Outdoors for Direct Earth Burial, Resistant to Sunlight and Moisture
- Heat Capacity of 90 degrees C, Rated for 600-Volts, Allowable Ampacity of 20 Amps
- Color of Wire May not be the Same as the Picture Shown
Specifications
- Color: Gray
- Dimension: 16.00Lx16.00Wx6.00H
- Size: 150ft
Pros
- Versatile wire for indoor and outdoor use
- Resistant to light, moisture, sunlight, and corrosion
- Affordable price for great quality
- Capable of handling 20 Amps of current
Cons
- Wire color may not match the picture
- Packaging could be improved
The 12/2 UF-B Wire is a reliable and cost-effective option for various electrical projects. Whether you need to wire your garage, power your garden area, or connect power to a shed, this wire is up to the task. It offers excellent performance in wet and corrosive environments indoors, as well as direct earth burial outdoors. With a high ampacity and durable construction, it provides reliable power transmission. The only downsides are the potential mismatch in wire color and the packaging quality. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and dependable wire for your electrical needs, the 12/2 UF-B Wire is a great choice.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The King Innovation 10444 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is an excellent solution for outdoor and garage power outlets, doorbells, spa and bathroom vent fans, patio and deck lighting, and more. These connectors are waterproof and corrosion proof, ensuring durability and longevity. With a one-step installation process and no pre-twisting of wires required, they are easy to use. The connectors come pre-filled with dielectric silicone sealant that never hardens, providing a secure and moisture-resistant connection. UL 486D listed and 600V rated, these connectors meet industry standards. However, it's important to note that they are not suitable for burial without a box. With a high customer rating and positive reviews, the King Innovation 10444 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is a reliable and efficient choice for various electrical applications.
Key Features
- For use in outdoor and garage power outlets, door bells, spa and bathroom vent fans, patio and deck lighting
- Waterproof and corrosion proof
- UL 486D listed, 600V rated
- 1 step installation with no pre-twisting of wires necessary
- Pre-filled with dielectric silicone sealant that never hardens
Specifications
- Color: Yellow
- Dimension: 5.25Lx9.25Wx0.75H
- Size: 10 pk
Pros
- Waterproof and corrosion proof
- Easy one-step installation
- Pre-filled with dielectric silicone sealant
Cons
- Not suitable for burial without a box
Overall, the King Innovation 10444 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is a highly recommended product for anyone needing reliable and long-lasting electrical connections in outdoor and garage settings. With its waterproof and corrosion-proof design, one-step installation process, and pre-filled silicone sealant, it offers convenience and durability. The connectors meet industry standards and have received positive reviews for their effectiveness. The only drawback is that they are not suitable for burial without a box. However, considering their excellent performance and customer satisfaction, this minor limitation can be easily addressed. If you’re looking for a trustworthy wire connector, the King Innovation 10444 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is worth considering.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The King Innovation 20225 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is a reliable and durable solution for your wiring needs. With a waterproof and corrosion-proof design, this wire connector ensures that your connections are secure and well-protected. It is UL 486D Listed and 600V rated, providing peace of mind knowing that it meets industry safety standards. The snap-fit lid provides strain relief, while the pre-filled dielectric silicone sealant never hardens, ensuring long-lasting performance. This connector is also UV and impact resistant, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. The King Innovation 20225 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector comes in a pack of 100 and is tan in color.
Key Features
- UL 486D Listed and 600V rated
- Waterproof and corrosion proof
- Snap-fit lid provides strain relief
- UV and impact resistant
- Pre-filled with dielectric silicone sealant
Specifications
- Color: Tan
- Dimension: 10.00Lx10.00Wx7.00H
- Size: 100 pk
Pros
- Durable and reliable
- Meets industry safety standards
- Prevents water and corrosion damage
- Easy snap-fit lid for strain relief
Cons
- Some customers received incorrect quantity
- Wire nuts may be difficult to find separately
The King Innovation 20225 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is a top-notch option for all your wiring connections. With its waterproof and corrosion-proof design, it provides excellent protection and ensures long-lasting performance. The UL 486D Listing and 600V rating give confidence in its safety and reliability. The convenient snap-fit lid and pre-filled silicone sealant make installation a breeze. While some customers experienced issues with the quantity received, the overall quality and performance make up for it. Whether you’re installing landscape lights, working on an outdoor project, or simply need reliable wire connectors, the King Innovation 20225 DryConn is a worthy investment.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The King Innovation 20525 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector is a reliable and durable option for your electrical connection needs. This waterproof and direct bury connector is UL 486D listed, ensuring its quality and safety. With a maximum voltage of 600-Volt, it can handle various electrical applications. It is also UV resistant for above ground use. The connector comes pre-filled with a dielectric silicone sealant that never hardens, providing long-lasting protection. Made in the USA, this wire connector guarantees exceptional craftsmanship. The blue color adds visibility and aesthetic appeal to your wiring projects. With dimensions of 8.00Lx8.00Wx6.40H, it is compact and easy to handle.
Key Features
- UL 486D listed for waterproof and direct bury
- Maximum 600-Volt
- UV resistant for above ground applications
- Pre-filled with a dielectric silicone sealant that never hardens
- Made in the USA
Specifications
- Color: Blue
- Dimension: 8.00Lx8.00Wx6.40H
Pros
- Waterproof and direct bury for added durability
- High maximum voltage capability
- UV resistant for above ground use
- Long-lasting protection with silicone sealant
- Made in the USA for excellent craftsmanship
Cons
The King Innovation 20525 DryConn Direct Bury Wire Connector offers reliability, durability, and convenience for your electrical connections. Its waterproof and direct bury capabilities make it a trustworthy choice, while the pre-filled silicone sealant ensures long-lasting protection against moisture. With a high maximum voltage and UV resistance, it can handle various applications both above and below ground. Made in the USA, you can trust its exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this wire connector is a valuable addition to your tool kit.
Overall Score: 8/10
The SOUTHWIRE COMPANY LL 13054255 14-2 Underground Feeder Cable is a high-quality cable designed specifically for use as underground feeder cable. It is perfect for direct earth burial in branch circuits, as well as for indoor use in wet or corrosive locations. The cable is highly resistant to acids, alkalis, corrosive fumes, chemicals, lubricants, and ground water. It is non-corroding, sunlight-resistant, and will not support combustion. With a grey color and a size of 250 feet, this cable is versatile and durable. Customers rave about its quality, price, and ease of installation. Overall, the SOUTHWIRE COMPANY LL 13054255 14-2 Underground Feeder Cable is a reliable and affordable option for any storage needs.
Key Features
- Cable designed specifically for use as underground feeder cable
- Highly resistant to acids, alkalis, corrosive fumes, chemicals, lubricants, and ground water
- No corroding, sunlight-resistant, and will not support combustion
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 14.00Lx14.00Wx2.50H
- Size: 250'
Pros
- High-quality wire at an affordable price
- Good customer service
- Easy to install for underground wire
Cons
- Found it cheaper at a local store
The SOUTHWIRE COMPANY LL 13054255 14-2 Underground Feeder Cable is a reliable and durable cable that is perfect for underground installations. It is highly resistant to various elements, making it suitable for wet or corrosive locations. Customers praise its quality, affordability, and ease of installation. The only drawback is that it may be found cheaper at local stores. Overall, if you’re in need of a reliable and affordable underground feeder cable, this product is worth considering.
Buyer's Guide: Direct Bury Electrical Wire
Why settle for tangled cables and exposed wires when you can choose direct bury electrical wire for a seamless and efficient electrical setup? Whether you're looking to upgrade your outdoor lighting or install an electric fence, direct bury electrical wire is an excellent solution. To help you make an informed decision, this buyer's guide provides everything you need to know about direct bury electrical wire. So let's dive in and explore the world of buried wiring!
Read more: How To Bury Electrical Wire To Shed
Benefits of Direct Bury Electrical Wire
- Protection from environmental factors: Direct bury electrical wire is designed to withstand various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and sunlight, ensuring durable and reliable connections.
- Aesthetically pleasing: By burying the wires underground, you can maintain a clean and uncluttered outdoor space, enhancing the overall appearance of your property.
- Ease of installation: Compared to concealing wires in conduits, installing direct bury electrical wire is a relatively simple process that saves time, effort, and resources.
- Cost-effective: With direct bury electrical wire, you can eliminate the need for costly conduits or enclosures, making it a budget-friendly option for your electrical projects.
- Versatility: Whether you're setting up outdoor lighting, an irrigation system, or any other electrical installation, direct bury electrical wire is suitable for various applications.
Factors to Consider
- Wire Gauge: The gauge of the wire determines its thickness and capacity to carry electrical current. Consider the power requirements of your project and choose the appropriate wire gauge to ensure a safe and efficient electrical connection.
- Wire Length: Measure the distance between the power source and the destination to determine the wire length needed. It's better to have excess wire, as it allows for adjustments or future expansions without the need to replace the entire wiring system.
- Wire Material: Copper and aluminum are common choices for direct bury electrical wire. Copper offers better conductivity, while aluminum is more cost-effective. Consider your specific project requirements and budget before selecting the appropriate material.
- Weather Resistance: Ensure that the direct bury electrical wire you choose is specifically designed to withstand the weather conditions in your area. Look for wires with UV-resistant coatings and insulation to prevent degradation.
- Conductor Type: Decide between solid and stranded conductors. Solid conductors are more suitable for long, straight runs, while stranded conductors offer flexibility for applications that require bending and twisting.
- Electrical Code Compliance: Familiarize yourself with the relevant electrical codes and regulations in your area. Make sure the direct bury electrical wire you select complies with these standards to ensure safety and avoid any legal complications.
Tips for Installation
- Digging: Before burying the wire, dig a trench that complies with local regulations and is deep enough to protect the wire from accidental damage. Refer to the electrical codes or consult a professional if you're unsure about the required depth.
- Separation: Keep a safe distance between direct bury electrical wire and other utility lines, such as water pipes and gas lines, to prevent any interference or accidental damage during installation.
- Protection: To enhance the longevity of your buried wire, consider installing a protective conduit or using direct bury wire rated for direct burial without the need for additional covering.
- Warning Tape: Place cautionary warning tape above the buried wire to alert future excavators. This will prevent accidental damage and provide a clear indication of the wire's location.
- Labeling: Ensure that you label both ends of the buried wire for easy identification and maintenance in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions about 9 Best Direct Bury Electrical Wire For 2024
No, direct bury electrical wire is specifically designed for outdoor use and is not suitable for indoor applications. Indoor wiring requires different types of cables and insulation.
The appropriate burial depth may vary based on local electrical codes and the specific power requirements of your project. It is advisable to dig a trench that is at least 18 inches deep to provide adequate protection for the wire.
Yes, direct bury electrical wire is suitable for both low-voltage and high-voltage applications. Be sure to select the appropriate wire gauge and conductor type based on the power requirements of your low-voltage system.
In most cases, using conduit with direct bury electrical wire is not necessary. However, for added protection or if your local electrical codes require it, you can choose to install conduit over the wire.
While the installation process of direct bury electrical wire is relatively straightforward, it’s essential to have proper knowledge and adhere to local electrical codes. If you’re unsure or not experienced with electrical work, it is recommended to hire a professional electrician for safe and reliable installation.
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