I have a duplex that has a problem with the wire feeding the range on the second floor. It is extremely old and fraying and needs to be replaced. The wire runs through my garage, out the side of the house and along the back of the house (about 12 feet from the ground) into the 2nd floor kitchen.

Can I replace this wire with UF-B 8/3? (the breaker the range is on is a 40amp double pole). I'd rather not run conduit along the entire length, I'd like to know if I can get away with the UF-B

Thanks!

No you need to put in conduit sorry Jim

Why?

What is the purpose of UF-B then? Just so it can be used underground without conduit?

Is there any other wire I can run outside without conduit? If I do have to use conduit, wouldn't I just run single THWN wires through it then?

Not trying to challenge, just questioning -- section 300.5D1 of the NEC 2005 states that UF cable must be protected where emerging from the earth from 18in below grade to 8ft above. Wouldn't that mean if my cable is running on the house higher than 8ft above the ground that I could run it without conduit?

Bauer... I think you are right. The wire is suitable for damp or wet locations.. proper size, adequate fastening and I think you have an acceptable installation. But local codes may tell you otherwise, if you have a local inspector.

Just curious, what is the UV protection rating for UF cable?

It is rated for sunlight exposure