LOOONNNGGG Underground Cable Run

[husband_dad_engineer]

Thanks for the input. With those risks, I like the idea of getting it out 100' instead of just the minimum.

 

[BXpanded]

My question is, I've got the choice where the transformer will be, just a minimum of 15' and maximum of 200' from the structures. Where should I put it? Should I stick it between the house and barn to minimize the secondary run or put it 100' or so away from everything?

When you pick the location, think long and hard about your landscaping plans. The underground electrical was installed before the house was built. I have a transformer in my front yard right next to my driveway. It took lots of effort to disguise that ugly green box that is set about 10 degrees off level. It turned out good, but required lots of plants, some small berms, a couple of rocks, etc. It would have been so much easier if the transformer had been at the other end of the lot.
I tried to get the transformer moved at my expense but the line is a loop around the cul de sac and the elec wouldn't hear of it since it would require changes to two other houses.

 

[grsthegreat]

I'll be doing this same project in a few weeks, going 2000' from the road to a pad mount transformer for a new house and barn. I dig the 48" deep trench and the rural electric company takes care of everything else (conduit, junctions boxes, etc.). Luckily, I'll mostly be going through top soil (northeast OK).

It'll run from the pole at the county road, along the north side of the driveway easement, but then what? I'll also be running water along the same length, with 1' horizontal and vertical separation requirements. I'll put the electric trench closest to the driveway and the water line trench just north of that.

My question is, I've got the choice where the transformer will be, just a minimum of 15' and maximum of 200' from the structures. Where should I put it? Should I stick it between the house and barn to minimize the secondary run or put it 100' or so away from everything?

it depends on whether the barn will get its own service or be fed off of the house service. If its to get its own service then locating the transformer between the 2 structures will be best. If it shares the house service....lose the transformer in a nice secluded spot.