What should I check before running solar wire along the outside wall?

First confirm that 10 AWG is right for your system. The answer depends on the panel or string current, system voltage, the full circuit length, and the applicable temperature and installation adjustments. For voltage drop, account for both conductors, not just the one-way distance.

Also check that the cable itself is listed for the use. Conduit protects wiring, but it doesn’t make an unsuitable cable appropriate for a solar circuit. If you’re unsure how to check the conductor sizing or cable requirements, get a qualified electrician to review the plan before buying materials.

For an exterior run, electrical PVC conduit can be a workable option if it’s suitable for the location, properly supported, and installed with the correct electrical fittings. Use the solvent cement specified for that conduit system, not electrical tape or plumbing adhesive. Plan the bends and pull points so the conductors can be installed without damage.

Metal conduit is another option, with fittings and supports appropriate for outdoor exposure. The best choice depends on the route, physical damage risk, local rules, and the products available where you live.

I wouldn’t route the cable under the garage door. It can get pinched or damaged, and it leaves the entry point hard to protect. A properly planned wall penetration is usually a cleaner route, but the wiring method and any transition from exterior to interior need to follow local requirements.

Rules vary by location and system details, so check with your local electrical authority or a licensed electrician before making the opening. Don’t assume that the same conduit or cable arrangement is allowed indoors as outdoors.