If you've looked at exposed wiring in a garage, basement, or outdoor area, you've probably seen metal or plastic tubes running along the walls. That's electrical conduit, and the small parts that join, bend, and attach it are called conduit fittings. Here's a simple guide to what they are and where they're used.
What Is Conduit and Why Fittings Matter
Conduit is a tube that protects electrical wires from damage, moisture, and pests. Fittings connect conduit pieces together, attach conduit to electrical boxes, and help it turn corners. Using the right fittings keeps the system secure, safe, and up to code.
Common Types of Conduit
- EMT (Electrical Metallic Tubing): Thin-wall steel conduit, common in garages, basements, and commercial spaces.
- PVC conduit: Lightweight plastic, great for outdoor and underground runs.
- Flexible metal conduit (FMC): Bends easily for tight spaces and short runs to equipment.
- Liquid-tight conduit: Flexible and sealed against water, used outdoors and near HVAC units.
Common Conduit Fittings
Couplings
Couplings join two straight pieces of conduit. Set-screw couplings are easy to install with a screwdriver. See the Gisafai 3/4" EMT Set-Screw Couplings (10 Pack).
Connectors
Connectors attach conduit to an electrical box or panel. The 3/4" EMT Set Screw Connector 50-Pack is handy for larger projects.
Pull elbows
Pull elbows help conduit turn 90-degree corners and make it easier to pull wire through. Try the 3/4" EMT Inside Corner Pull Elbow 5-Pack.
Flexible conduit connectors
Squeeze connectors secure flexible metal conduit to boxes, like the Yaocom 3/4" FMC Squeeze Connectors.
Liquid-tight connectors
These seal flexible conduit against moisture, ideal for outdoor equipment. See the 3/4" Non-Metallic Liquid Tight Connector.
Where Conduit Fittings Are Used Around the Home
- Garages and workshops: Exposed EMT protects wiring for outlets and lights.
- Basements: Unfinished walls often use conduit for safety.
- Outdoors: PVC and liquid-tight conduit protect wires for lights, pumps, and AC units.
- Appliance connections: Flexible conduit connects to water heaters, disposals, and equipment.
How to Choose the Right Fittings
1. Match the conduit type
EMT fittings are for EMT, PVC fittings for PVC, and flexible fittings for flexible conduit.
2. Match the size
Common sizes are 1/2", 3/4", and 1". The fitting must match your conduit size exactly.
3. Consider the location
Indoors, set-screw fittings are common. In wet or outdoor areas, use compression or liquid-tight fittings.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Always turn off power at the breaker before working near wiring.
- Don't use indoor set-screw fittings in wet locations.
- Deburr cut conduit edges so they don't damage wire insulation.
- Secure conduit with straps at regular intervals.
- Follow local electrical codes, and hire a licensed electrician for major work.
Shop the Collection
Explore Ttavello's Conduit & Fittings collection for couplings, connectors, elbows, and liquid-tight fittings suited to home and workshop projects.
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