I want to put some floodlights up in a tree perhaps 50′ from my house, but I don’t know the code requirements for overhead power.
Can you give me some advice?
Making mitered head casings is a breeze with this simple system.
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now
Replies
Bump
Just off the top of my head:
You should probably go up a couple of wire sizes [for strength] or use a messenger cable for the overhead run.
There are clearance issues. Are you crossing any driveways, sidewalks, railroads, highways?
What are the amps of the lites?
~Peter
I'm not sure I understand your question. There are code requirements for clearance for overhead conductors, both from the ground and from buildings.
The code section that I would want to address first is found in Article 225.26 of the 2008 NEC. It states
" 225.26 Vegetation as support. Vegetation such as trees shall not be used for support of overhead conductor spans."
The clearances are found in the same article in section 225.18 if you should decide to ignore the first item, as I assume this is in your backyard or some such place.
Chuck
I would think the biggest problem with a tree is its "sway" when the wind kicks up. Might work if you go to the trunk then up the tree. Code might be against this. Best do some checking.
LV lighting is often used for that. But you need to run the power cables up the side of the tree. Not "arialy".
Fxitures up to 20 watts is common, but I think that you can get 50 watters also.
William the Geezer, the sequel to Billy the Kid - Shoe