I recently picked up an outdoor wireless security camera that only needs power. Instead of drilling into my house for a power cable, I'm thinking of using an outdoor outlet on the side of the house, but the camera will be installed at the front. Is it safe to run an outdoor extension cable through a PVC pipe (schedule 80) from that outlet around my house? I'd plan to use a TayMac MX4280WH outlet cover on one end and a waterproof socket box at the other end. I'm looking at using 1.5" PVC80, and it can get pretty pricey, especially if I end up needing 50 feet. I'm not very familiar with electrical work, but if there's an easier method that involves a bit of wiring, I'd be open to that. I've seen mixed opinions online regarding the safety of running extension cables through PVC, so I'm hoping for some advice!
1 Answer
You're actually really close to a proper installation! If you can connect your camera's power directly to the outlet box, that'd make it code compliant. If you stick with your current plan, it's safer to go with a 1/2" conduit and use THHN wire, then use a cord connected to a box at the other end. Another option: consider getting a longer power cord for your camera since that would fall under low voltage wiring, and you can easily run it along the siding without the need for conduit.
Something like [this?](https://www.amazon.com/WildHD-Extension-Compatible-Security-Standalone/dp/B0769K16KF/ref=sr_1_6?crid=1C97Y2AK7HJ3I&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.mbjGomyzwxOPf3kIV6D80Oa3Hsl5-c_Du-jRnQqgQuFYVH_zoI2AuVNNevbzd5T-cTtNS6c72TOV4jxyy2PCQ4Mcmy-LADSRUeaf48eVwPu-f1zfFZzKYeziurNQDESDyWhQWYXhTKuK2VHzYa5iKACXz96d3dYQwlIkAvZuDL0VBesr7YViw3zgwmtHcP1V4JEA7wACub-WYH3VIWeMkZNbsC1ldfaX4znsuzpKwrw.1yb8C3BjegPBsaZqDunfzFInvaMMCZ35vnKBFA0vtfA&dib_tag=se&keywords=tp%2Blink%2Btapo%2Bextension%2Bcable%2Bpower%2Bsupply&qid=1751901572&sprefix=tp%2Blink%2Btapo%2Bextension%2Bcable%2Bpower%2Bsupply%2Caps%2C150&sr=8-6&th=1). Just remember to weatherproof the connection with the DC adapter!