Learning how to wire a garage is an important step if a person wants to complete the job on their own. The overall design of the garage will determine the wiring layout that is used. The number of outlets, the type of lighting and various other elements, such as items that will require 220 amp service will all need to be considered. You will also need to think about what kinds of activities will be performed in the garage and how much space will be used for each one. This will be important when considering the placement of the lights and outlets.
Approved Wiring Diagram
Even individuals who have experience wiring small appliances or circuits, may need to learn how to wire a garage correctly. If you plan on wiring the garage yourself, you will need to find an approved wiring diagram that meets your overall needs. Home improvement stores often have books that include several different wiring layouts that will accommodate a wide variety of activities. Make sure the diagram you choose provides enough outlets for various activities. You will also want to make sure there are directions for installing overhead lighting, garage door openers and 220 amp circuits if they are needed.
Choosing the Correct Wire and Breaker Box
Once you have chosen a wiring diagram and purchased the materials, the next step is determining where to put the breaker box, measuring the appropriate size wire and placing the outlet boxes. With the outlet boxes in place, the wire can be ran from each outlet back to the breaker box and securing attached to the inside of the boards.
If you plan on running 220 amp service along with the 110, you will need to make sure you have wire that is capable of carrying that amount of electrical current. 220 amp service also requires its own set of breakers in the fuse box. A detached garage will require its own fuse box, while an attached garage may be able to run off the one that services the house. The home’s fuse box can be used as long as it is able to handle the extra load.
When running wire for the ceiling lights and garage door opener, make sure that each fixture is properly secured and that no wires are crimped or pinched. With some fluorescent light fixtures, especially those that are hung from the ceiling by chains, a plug in is all that is needed. In some cases, a garage door opener may need to be put on its circuit, depending on how much power it needs to operate.
Pass an Inspection
Whether you are wiring an attached or detached garage, you will need to contact a license electrician before actually hooking the wiring up to any source of electricity. The installation of a fuse box in an attached garage should be inspected before any wires are ran. This will ensure it is installed correctly and that any wires that are to be used are measured and cut to the right length. Once the location is approved, the rest of the wiring can be placed accordingly.
Safety Measures
There are several safety precautions that must be taken when wiring any type of building. They include:
- All wiring, outlets, outlet boxes, fuse boxes, circuit breakers and switches are new and free of defects
- Follow electrical diagrams closely and pay attention to directions
- Only used approved hardware
- Never cross, crimp or impinge electric wire or run it between pieces of wood or other materials
- Never hook the fuse box up to a power source without having a licensed electrician on the premises
After everything has been installed and all fixtures are in place and the inspection is complete, the fuse box can be hooked up to the electrical power source. Whether it is the home’s fuse box or that of the garage itself, the actual connection should be made by a licensed electrician. In most cases, the electric company needs to be called as well. If you are just learning how to wire a garage, it is important to enlist the services of a licensed contractor or electrician to make sure all additions are up to code and that everything is hooked up accordingly.
