UF Cable for Sourcing Power Underground
An underground wire protects your outdoor connection from harsh weather such as wind and snow that can fell trees and knock out overhead lines. At Lowe's you'll find quality UF cable in a wide selection of gauges and lengths, perfect for sourcing power to your front gate, flood lights or detached garage.
UF stands for underground feeder, and UF wire is specially designed to perform even in soaked and soggy soil and features UV protection from exposure to the sun at connections above ground. It'll resist the growth of fungi, too, and still can handle load capacities of up to 55 amperes.
There are two kinds of UF wire: regular and UF-B. UF-B wire doesn't require installation in a conduit. Instead, PVC insulation protects the soft copper conductors, enabling direct burial of the wire underground. Still not sure if this is the right wire for your project? Check out our Electrical Wire and Cable Buying Guide for top tips and advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Is the Difference Between a UF and UF-B Cable?
A: The main difference is that UF cable should be installed within a conduit to ensure proper performance. UF-B cable, on the other hand, comes protected in a PVC jacket, so you can bury this cable directly underground.
Q: Does UF Wire Need Conduit?
A: Regular UF wire does need a conduit to provide protection against moisture and fungi. If you select UF-B wire, its PVC casing protects the wire, so it can be buried directly in the soil.
Q: Can You Bury UF Wire Without Conduit?
A: UF wire should be installed using a conduit, even though it can be bought independently in rolls. For an underground-ready wire that doesn't require a conduit, consider UF-B cable.