Have you thought about installing an electrical panel but don’t want to build an additional room? It may be the perfect solution for you to install an electrical panel in the garage.
Additionally, the addition provides additional storage at a low cost. Can you really put an electrical panel in a garage? Let’s investigate.
Electrical panel in garage:
In your garage, you can install an electrical panel. There must be a specific wiring specification and an approved access point. You can install a panel inside any room that meets NEC requirements. Be careful not to obstruct traffic or interfere with cables and cords.
Installing an electrical panel in your garage can be a great way to increase the safety of your garage. There is more to having access to electricity than just when you need it.
However, if there are ever any problems with the wiring or appliances connected to the panel, they will automatically shut down without causing significant damage.
It is particularly important for families with young children or pets that might accidentally set something ablaze.
You can have a safe in your garage, add more storage space, and add functionality to your garage by installing an electrical panel that is connected to the garage.
In your garage, however, specific wiring and access requirements may need to be met for the installation of an electrical panel.
Code installing an electrical panel in the garage:
Panels in garages are not subject to any specific codes. There is a code for installing electrical panels. If you want to install a panel in your garage, you need to meet these requirements.
NEC requirements require that panels have a 36-inch front clearance, a 30-inch side clearance, and a 6-foot-5 clearance around the working area.
You will probably need a permit to move an electric panel. In a garage or basement, you can meet all of these requirements.
5.5 feet above the floor, the 2020 NEC requires each vehicle bay to have one 120-volt, 20-ampere branch outlet. You can plug in your vehicles as long as they are parked in the bay.
Within two feet of each vehicle bay, a 12-volt outlet must be provided, and within five feet of the panel, another 12-volt outlet must be provided.
Pros and cons of installing electric panel in the garage:
It is a great idea to install an electrical panel in your garage to increase safety. Power will be available to you whenever you need it.
It will automatically shut down safely if there are any problems with the wiring or appliances connected to the panel. The pros and cons of having an electric panel in the garage are listed below.
Pros:
Adds safety and functionality to your garage:
Installing an electrical panel in your garage will give you peace of mind that everything connected to it is safe and reliable. In addition to saving, you money on energy costs, electrical panels allow you to control the temperature in your home.
Automatically regulates temperature:
Adding an electrical panel in your garage will allow your thermostat to control the temperature inside and outside your home. You may find this especially useful if you live in a warm climate or have small children who may get cold easily.
User-friendly and easy to install:
In most cases, installing an electrical panel in your garage is a relatively simple task that can be handled by any home improvement expert.
Can increase the value of your home:
There may be an increase in your home’s value if you have an electric panel in your garage.
A well-maintained and updated electrical system is considered by many to be one of the key features of a good home. This is because many people consider it to be a crucial aspect.
Increased functionality:
By installing an electric panel in your garage, you will be able to take advantage of the space to its full potential.
Depending on the size and layout of your home, this might include more outlets as well as switches that will allow you to turn off everything in your home when you are not using it.
Cons:
It may require specific wiring and access specifications:
Consider the wiring and access requirements if you are considering installing an electrical panel in your garage. The contractor or electrician will be unable to install the panel properly if you do not provide him with this information.
It may not be suitable for every home:
Depending on the size of the house and other factors, some homes will not be suitable for an electrical panel due to a lack of space or other factors. A professional can help you determine whether or not a panel is right for you.
Can be expensive:
The cost of installing an electrical panel in your garage may be higher than if you were to buy the equipment separately.
It is likely, however, that the investment will pay off in terms of safety and convenience in terms of controlling the ambient temperature in your home.
Can you run an electrical sub-panel in the garage?
In the garage, you can run an electrical sub-panel which will provide power to the garage. Despite this, the size and configuration of the space will have to be taken into account.
Depending on the situation, it may be necessary to remove a wall or install access panels to perform the work.
There are, however, a few things that you should take into account before you make your final decision. Your circuit breaker should handle the extra load, and you’ll also need a generator or inverter if you wish to power larger appliances.
There may be some disadvantages associated with the equipment, such as the fact that you may not have enough space to store it. Having a small garage might make it impossible for you to install a full-sized panel in your garage if you have a small one.
A sub-panel may also require special wiring, which will add to the expense and complexity of the job if you are not familiar with this type of work.
Electrical panel location and installation requirements:
Typically, electrical panels are installed in garages or basements. Depending on the type of panel you choose and the layout of your home, electrical panels require different installation requirements.
Typical installation requirements include a clear path to the outlet box, access to ductwork, and proper grounding. The following are the most important requirements for installation.
Location:
Ensure that the panel is located in a well-ventilated area. There should be easy access to the wiring and it should be close to the main electrical service panel. It is best to choose a wall that is easily accessible.
The panel must be easily accessible at all times. Keep almost a one-foot distance from the panel so that cars and other vehicles do not directly contact it.
Socket location:
For garage installation, you’ll need a GFCI outlet within 15 ft. of each socket on your panel and at least one other outlet within 30 ft. In general, the farther you are from the panel, the less power you will receive (up to 100 feet away from the panel).
Check your local building codes and the requirements for permits if you are planning to install a new electrical panel.
Size:
The majority of panels are designed for 120-volt use. There are, however, some panels that are designed to operate at 240 volts. You might need a more powerful panel if your home is older or if you want to add features such as video services or attic ventilation.
Grounding:
A proper grounding of the panel is essential to avoid the possibility of shock occurring. By connecting it to a grounding electrode that already exists or by installing a ground rod, you will be able to achieve this.
Having selected the type of panel and determined the location, installation requirements, and socket location for your installation, it is now time to select the wiring for your panel.
Wiring:
After determining the type of panel and location, determine how many wires will need to be run to your house. Most panels come with preinstalled wiring, but if you need a sub-panel, you may need additional wire.
The number and type of wires needed will depend on the size of your electrical panel and the distance between outlets. A smart panel can also manage power consumption in your home, so you should choose wiring that is compatible with this feature.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, you can install an electrical panel in your garage. The installation meets the requirements of the NEC. Additionally, it contributes to the safety of homes and garages. An electrical panel for a garage must be properly wired, permit-approved, and of the proper size.