I need to install a permanent wiring from a receptacle on the ceiling of finished garage to outside of garage (for motion-sensor flood light). The wire will not be below 9 feet level.
Do I need to use conduit in the first place?
Assuming yes – I'm planning to extend an outlet, replace with GFCI and then run the wire through PVC conduit attached to the ceiling. Second question – can I run wire directly through the wall from PVC conduit? Or do I need to connect it to a junction box (and then from junction box to run wire through the wall)?
Best Answer
Generally speaking, wires within reach need to be protected. Above 9 feet is out of reach, doesn't need to be protected, so conduit not required. If you use conduit then you can use separate wires. If you don't use conduit then you use cable - normally non-metallic cable, aka Romex.
However, you do not normally need GFCI on permanently wired lighting (except above a tub or shower or certain other places). In fact, if you want to GFCI-protect a ceiling receptacle, you can't install a GFCI/receptacle in that location because the GFCI has to be easily accessible. At the same time, if the receptacle is only used with out-of-reach stuff (e.g., ceiling lighting or fan) then you don't need GFCI anyway, though local code may vary.
As far as conduit through the wall, I am pretty sure that is fine, but one of the experts will speak up if there is a problem. In fact, I suspect it is the opposite - running loose wires (as opposed to cable) outside conduit, even just to go through a wall, is not allowed.