I am installing a subpanel in my garage and feeding it from the main box with 6/3 romex. I ran the cable across the basement ceiling, through the wall into my garage. I was able to run it up through the wall that separates my house from my garage, into the garage attic, over to the other side of the garage and down the wall to the subpanel.
Inside the wall I used several staples to make sure the cable stayed away from the drywall. However, now that I have the cable in place, I'm uncomfortable with the unprotected 60 amp feed running through a wall that someone could drive a nail through. I understand I can't run it through conduit, so what is the best way to protect the cable (hence, PEOPLE) from damage?
Best Answer
The same puncture issue exists with any in-wall wire. Check local codes, but most require wires to be run along the middle of studs which, for 2x4 studs. is 1 3/4 in from the wall board. If your feed is 120V, the shock danger is about the same regardless of gauge. Without being able to get inside the wall, there's not much that can be done.
Alternatively, you could use shielded flexible conduit or rigid conduit. The first is expensive in your gauge, the second requires wire length access above or below the wall or can be mounted on the wall. Doesn't look too hot that way.
I started using flex conduit for blind runs long ago because it can be pushed to fish, is easier to fish and location inside the wall doesn't matter much. Entrance and exit holes have to be centered but it doesn't have to be attached inside.