Best Underground Electrical Wire of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2025

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Underground electrical wire is a reliable and safe way to transmit electricity from one point to another without the need for unsightly overhead power lines. These wires are typically buried at a depth of at least 18 inches to protect them from damage and to comply with local building codes. They are commonly used for residential and commercial applications, such as powering outdoor lights, pool pumps, and irrigation systems. Underground electrical wires are available in a variety of sizes and materials to meet the needs of different projects, and they are generally considered a low-maintenance option for long-term electricity transmission.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Southwire UF-B Underground Feeder Cable Cover #TOP 1
Southwire UF-B Underground Feeder Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.9
FUNSOUND 10/2 UF-B Wire Cover #TOP 2
FUNSOUND 10/2 UF-B Wire
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Stock Wire 10/2 UF-B Wire Cover #TOP 3
Stock Wire 10/2 UF-B Wire
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Underground Electrical Wire

#TOP 1

Southwire UF-B Underground Feeder Cable

13055955
250 Feet
Southwire UF-B Underground Feeder Cable Cover
Southwire UF-B Underground Feeder Cable, 12/2 AWG, 250 ft

The Southwire UF-B Underground Feeder Cable comes with 2 or 3 conductors and a ground wire. The conductors are made of soft copper with PVC insulation and a color coded jacket. It is suitable for wet or corrosive indoor use and direct outdoor burial.

What We Like
Soft copper conductors
PVC insulation with color coded jacket
Suitable for indoor wet or corrosive use and direct outdoor burial
#TOP 2

FUNSOUND 10/2 UF-B Wire

28794-150
Gray
150ft
FUNSOUND 10/2 UF-B Wire Cover
10/2 UF-B Wire, Underground Feeder and Direct Earth Burial Cable (150ft Cut) c

The FUNSOUND 10/2 UF-B Wire, also known as the FUNSOUND UF-B Wire, is a high-quality underground feeder and direct earth burial cable. This cable is designed for electrical wiring applications and is suitable for use in wet locations. With its 150ft cut, it provides ample length for various installation needs. The first feature of this wire is its durability, ensuring long-lasting performance even in harsh conditions. The second feature is its flexibility, which allows for easy installation and maneuverability. The third feature is its resistance to moisture, making it ideal for outdoor and underground use. Lastly, it is rated for direct burial, providing added convenience and versatility. Overall, the FUNSOUND UF-B Wire is a reliable and convenient choice for electrical wiring projects.

What We Like
Durable
Flexible
Moisture-resistant
#TOP 3

Stock Wire 10/2 UF-B Wire

28794
Gray
50ft
Stock Wire 10/2 UF-B Wire Cover
10/2 UF-B Wire, Underground Feeder and Direct Earth Burial Cable (50ft Cut)

Introducing the Stock Wire UF-B Wire, a versatile electrical wire designed for both indoor and outdoor use. This wire features #10 AWG Annealed Copper Conductors, providing optimal conductivity for your electrical needs. With its heat capacity of 90 degrees Celsius, it can handle high temperatures without compromising performance. Rated for 600 volts and with an allowable ampacity of 30 amps, this wire is perfect for a wide range of applications. Whether you need to use it indoors in wet or corrosive locations, or for direct earth burial outdoors, the Stock Wire UF-B Wire is built to withstand the elements. Plus, it comes in a convenient 50ft cut length, making it easy to work with. Upgrade your electrical system with the reliable and durable Stock Wire UF-B Wire.

What We Like
Versatile
Durable
High conductivity
#TOP 4

Southwire 13055926 12/2WG UF Wire 100-Foot

13055926
Copper
100 ft
Southwire 13055926 12/2WG UF Wire 100-Foot Cover
Southwire Outdoor Wire, 12/2WG UF 100 Ft Coil, Approved for Direct Burial Wiring, SW# 13055926

This electrical wire is coated with a flame-retardant, moisture, and corrosion-resistant jacket that is sunlight resistant. It is suitable for direct burial applications and can be used for exposed or concealed wiring in damp, wet, dry, corrosive, and moist locations. The wire comes with 12 gauge, 2 conductors with ground, 100' per coil, UL listed, and is made in America.

What We Like
Flame-retardant, moisture, and corrosion-resistant jacket
Suitable for direct burial applications
Can be used in various locations with different moisture levels
UL listed
Made in America
#TOP 5

Stock Wire 12/2 UF-B Wire

14367
Gray
200ft
Stock Wire 12/2 UF-B Wire Cover
12/2 UF-B Wire, Underground Feeder and Direct Earth Burial Cable (200ft Cut)

Stock Wire Underground Cable features #12 AWG wire with 2 copper conductors. It can be used indoors in wet or corrosive areas, staying resistant to light and moisture. Outdoors, it's perfect for direct burial, standing strong against sunlight and moisture. With a heat capacity of 90 degreesC and a 600-volt rating, it can handle up to 20 amps. The wire's color may vary from the picture shown.

What We Like
Indoor and outdoor use
Resistant to light and moisture
Direct burial capability
#TOP 6

Southwire 13055922 12/2WG UF Wire 50-Foot, Copper

13055922
Copper
50 ft
Southwire 13055922 12/2WG UF Wire 50-Foot, Copper Cover
Southwire 13055922 12/2WG UF Wire 50-Foot, Copper

The Southwire UF Wire is a high-quality electrical wire that is safe for use in sunlight. It is primarily designed for direct burial applications, making it perfect for underground feeder to outdoor lighting and exposed or concealed wiring in various locations. With its UL Listing, you can trust that this wire meets the highest safety standards. The 12 gauge, 2 conductors with ground provide ample power for your electrical needs. Plus, with 50 feet per coil, you'll have plenty of wire to work with. Made in America, this wire is a reliable choice for any electrical project.

What We Like
Safe for use in sunlight
UL Listed
12 gauge, 2 conductors with ground
#TOP 7

Southwire 13054226 14/2 UF W/G Hundred' Wire

13054226
Gray
Southwire 13054226 14/2 UF W/G Hundred' Wire Cover
Southwire 13054226 14/2 UF W/G Hundred' Wire, Gray, Hundred Ft

The Southwire UF W/G Wire is a high-quality electrical wire that is perfect for direct burial applications. Its coated jacket is resistant to sunlight, flames, moisture, rust, and corrosion, making it ideal for use in both indoor and outdoor environments. Whether you need to install outdoor lighting or wiring in damp or wet locations, this wire has got you covered. With its UL Listing, you can trust that it meets all safety standards. The 14 gauge, 2 conductors with ground provide reliable and efficient power transmission. Plus, it is made in America, ensuring superior quality and durability.

What We Like
Sunlight resistant
Flame retardant
Moisture and corrosion resistant
#TOP 8

Kingdder Metal Clad Cable

Kingdder-Installation-56
silver
14/2, 100 ft
Kingdder Metal Clad Cable Cover
Kingdder Metal Clad Cable, Wire With Ground, Metal Solid Clad Cable with Aluminum Armor Stranded Solid Copper Conductors Ground Wire for Indoor Outdoor Underground Embedded Installation (14/2, 100 ft)

Introducing the Kingdder Metal Clad Cable, a high-quality electrical wire that is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. This 100 ft cable features three solid copper wires, two of which are conductor wires and one is a ground wire. The metal sheathing surrounding the wires is made of aluminum, providing flexibility and coverage. The cable is coated with THHN/THWN-2, making it resistant to high heat and water. It is also corrosion resistant and can handle heat and humidity. With its layers of cable protection, this UL certified wire is suitable for various applications without the need for conduit installation. Save time and energy with the Kingdder Cable, as it eliminates the need for conduit in most applications. Whether you need protection for your electrical applications indoors or outdoors, above ground or underground, enclosed or open, choose the Kingdder Metal Clad Cable with confidence.

What We Like
Flexible and corrosion resistant
Eliminates the need for conduit
UL certified
#TOP 9

Nassau 4-4-4-4 Tulsa Quadruplex Aluminum Conductor URD Cable

100 Feet Tulsa 4-4-4-4
Black
100FT
Nassau 4-4-4-4 Tulsa Quadruplex Aluminum Conductor URD Cable Cover
Nassau Electrical Supply 100' 4-4-4-4 Tulsa Quadruplex Aluminum Conductor Underground Direct Burial URD Cable 600V

The Nassau URD Cable is a high-quality electrical wire designed for underground direct burial applications. It features a compact stranded 8000 series aluminum alloy conductor, which ensures efficient power transmission and durability. The crosslinked polyethylene insulation provides excellent protection against moisture, heat, and abrasion, making it ideal for outdoor use. The black phase conductors and triple yellow striped neutral make it easy to identify and install. With its multiplexed cable conductors and left-hand lay construction, this cable offers easy installation and flexibility. It meets industry standards and is UL Standard 854, ICEA S-66-524, and REA approved. The Nassau URD Cable is a reliable and efficient choice for all your electrical wiring needs.

What We Like
Compact stranded aluminum conductor
Crosslinked polyethylene insulation
Easy identification with black phase conductors and triple yellow striped neutral
#TOP 10

10/3 UF-B Wire for Indoor and Outdoor Use (75ft Cut)

20013
Grey
75ft
10/3 UF-B Wire for Indoor and Outdoor Use (75ft Cut) Cover
10/3 UF-B Wire, Underground Feeder and Direct Earth Burial Cable (75ft Cut)

This 10/3 UF-B Wire has 3 annealed bare copper conductors, making it suitable for wet and corrosive indoor locations or direct burial outdoor use. With a heat capacity of 90 degreesC and a 600-volt rating, it can handle an allowable ampacity of 30 amps. Please note that the wire's color may differ from the picture shown.

What We Like
Suitable for wet and corrosive indoor locations or direct burial outdoor use
Can handle an allowable ampacity of 30 amps with a 600-volt rating
Has 3 annealed bare copper conductors for efficient electrical conductivity
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of electrical wire can be buried underground?

Common types of electrical wire suitable for direct burial include USE-2, UF-B Underground Feeder Cable, Tracer Wire, and URD Direct Burial Wire. These cables, with either copper or aluminum conductors, are designed specifically for underground use.

2. Do I need conduit for underground wire?

The need for conduit depends on the specific circumstances. If the wiring is not likely to be disturbed and there is no need for future digging, direct-burial cable can be used without conduit. However, if the wire will be in an area that may require digging in the future or if it is running through the middle of a yard, using PVC or metal conduit is recommended.

3. How deep does underground wire need to be buried?

The burial depth for underground wire depends on the type of conduit being used. Generally, high voltage direct bury cables and underground feeders should be buried at least 2 feet deep in a trench. However, the burial depth may vary for different types of conduits. It is important to consult the specific requirements for the conduit being used.

4. Can you use Romex underground?

Romex wire, which features a bare copper ground wire, is not suitable for direct burial as the ground wire is not fully protected by the PVC jacket. While THHN and THWN wires can be used in outdoor settings, they cannot be directly buried. It is recommended to use cables specifically designed for underground use.

5. Can I bury a live wire in the ground?

Yes, it is possible to bury a live wire in the ground. However, it is important to follow the guidelines outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC) to ensure safe and reliable service. The NEC provides provisions for allowable wiring methods, required burial depths, and other safety considerations for underground wiring.

6. What size wire do I need to run underground?

The size of wire needed to run underground depends on the specific application. For underground feeders and branch circuits, an approved type UF cable should be used. The sizes can range from No. 14 copper to No. 12 aluminum or copper-clad aluminum through No. 4/0.

7. How deep does PVC electrical conduit need to be buried?

The burial depth for PVC electrical conduit depends on the specific situation. For example, if installing a service lateral under a backyard lawn, it should be buried at least 18 inches deep. However, it is recommended to consult local utility requirements and adhere to the guidelines outlined in the NEC.

8. Does ground wire need to be in PVC conduit?

Attaching a green ground wire to PVC conduit ensures proper grounding methods at different connection levels. PVC conduit is effective for both concrete and underground installations. It is important to follow proper grounding practices to ensure electrical safety.

9. What is the NEC code for burying wire?

According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), cables approved for direct burial should have a minimum cover of 24 inches. However, if wiring is installed in approved non-metallic raceways at dwellings, the minimum cover can be reduced to 18 inches. It is important to consult the NEC and local regulations for specific requirements.

Editor's Notes

During our underground electrical wire research, we found 24 underground electrical wire products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 19,971 customer reviews through our big data system to write the underground electrical wire list. We found that most customers choose underground electrical wire with an average price of $126.30.

The underground electrical wire are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of underground electrical wire, including Southwire, Stock Wire, Kingdder, Nassau Electrical Supply. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,702 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.