Garage Wiring

[B7510HSD]

Hi folks I am going to be wiring my garage in the next month or so and wondered about the code for a garage. I know in houses AFCI breakers were required in bedrooms that I have done. Any special things I need to be aware of for a garage??? I usually run 15 amp for lighting and 20 amp for all my outlets. :confused3:

 

[George2615]

Probably be best to check with your local code enforcement office as each state / county may have different requirements.
I wired my garage but didn't require special breakers. 3 circuits for lighting and 4 for outlets plus 3 - 220 outlets.

 

[B7510HSD]

I'm doing research now on the web. Appears I need to make up my mind as to the walls being covered or not on how the wires are run..

 

[Tractor Seabee]

Garage outlets are always mounted at 48" from floor. That is because gasoline fumes are heaver than air. Code Class 1 Division I requirement. Mounting that high precludes using explosion proof outlets and tools.

Ron

 

[B7510HSD]

Garage outlets are always mounted at 48" from floor. That is because gasoline fumes are heaver than air. Code Class 1 Division I requirement. Mounting that high precludes using explosion proof outlets and tools.

Ron

Thanks for that info!!

 

[Diamondpilot]

Garage outlets are always mounted at 48" from floor. That is because gasoline fumes are heaver than air. Code Class 1 Division I requirement. Mounting that high precludes using explosion proof outlets and tools. Ron

That and all just be on a GFI in my area. Same for Pole Barns.

Chris

 

[B7510HSD]

That and all just be on a GFI in my area. Same for Pole Barns.

Chris

Not sure about this one better do some research....

 

[hslogger]

To be on the safe side don't forget the nail plates on studs that your wire goes through. Cheap insurance.
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[B7510HSD]

To be on the safe side don't forget the nail plates on studs that your wire goes through. Cheap insurance.
\

Funny you should mention this I was just reading if I don't cover the walls you can't drill holes and run the cable thru the studs like a normal house it must go on the face of the studs...:confused3: If I cover the walls then yes I will put the nail plates I'm leaning towards OSB sheeting for the inside walls painted white..

 

[lhfarm]

I would highly recommend the OSB painted white. Really improved the lighting and just the general feel of my garage/workshop. I'd also throw up insulation, even if you don't plan on heating/cooling. I heat, but don't cool and the place is comfortable even in our hot sticky Indiana summers. And covering the walls makes it more important to do planning for future needs and projects. Like as mentioned, putting in 220V outlets for those welders and big compressors that might happen.

 

[TCJatko]

Garage outlets are always mounted at 48" from floor. That is because gasoline fumes are heaver than air. Code Class 1 Division I requirement. Mounting that high precludes using explosion proof outlets and tools.

Ron

Let's get reasonable here. Class1 Divsion 1 classifications:

If sufficient flammable or combustible gases, vapors, or liquids are (or may be) present to produce an explosive or ignitable mixture, you have a Class I location. Examples of such locations include fuel storage areas, certain solvent storage areas, grain processing (where hexane is used), plastic extrusion where oil removal is part of the process, refineries, and paint storage areas.

Article 500 contains a general background on hazardous locations, and it describes the differences between Class I, II, and III locations plus the differences between Division 1 and Division 2 in each of the three classifications.

Article 501 contains the actual Class I, Division 1 and Division 2 installation requirements, including wiring methods, seals, and specific equipment requirements.

It's a garage, not an industrial location where flammable vapors are present. Were it Class 1 Division 1 the guy would need explosion-proof tools as well. There is NO height restriction on outlets.

 

[oosik]

When I built my small shed - 12x16 - and ran the wiring my only concern was - higher or lower than 36 inches. "Normal" shelf/counter top height is 36 inches. I went over 36" so my outlets will be above any future counter tops. I then insulated and covered the walls with 3/8 plywood. I REALLY do hate sheetrock. The shed is single purpose - its for my motorcycle & all associated M/C paraphernalia.

 

[B7510HSD]

Yes I normally put the outlets higher also in a garage or shed so that wasn't a big deal. I will wire it so I can insulate and cover the walls during the winter. I like wood on the walls so it is easy to hang things not having to find the studs.

 

[grsthegreat]

Residential garages do not fall under NEC classisied codes, so per say there is no height restrictions. No arc faults are required. But ALL OUTLETS incl garage door operator and any freezers, etc are to be gfci protected.

Mechanical codes require water heater heights, not nec codes.

My company has always placed garage outlets at 42" high (measured to bottom of box) for one reason only.... To allow for work benches.

 

[B7510HSD]

Residential garages do not fall under NEC classisied codes, so per say there is no height restrictions. No arc faults are required. But ALL OUTLETS incl garage door operator and any freezers, etc are to be gfci protected.

Mechanical codes require water heater heights, not nec codes.

My company has always placed garage outlets at 42" high (measured to bottom of box) for one reason only.... To allow for work benches.

Can you explain the water heater height I may put a small bathroom in?? I read GCFI not required on any outlet that is not accessible such as outlets behind freezers and large things that are left plugged in and not moved??

 

[grsthegreat]

Can you explain the water heater height I may put a small bathroom in?? I read GCFI not required on any outlet that is not accessible such as outlets behind freezers and large things that are left plugged in and not moved??

for the last 2 code changes, ie last 6years, EVERYTHING in a garage reguardless to height or use is to be gfci. The water heater isshu has to do with them being on a 18" pedistal. Here in idaho building inspectors (not elect inspector) requires. When i work in wash state, same regs are enforced.

 

[B7510HSD]

for the last 2 code changes, ie last 6years, EVERYTHING in a garage reguardless to height or use is to be gfci. The water heater isshu has to do with them being on a 18" pedistal. Here in idaho building inspectors (not elect inspector) requires. When i work in wash state, same regs are enforced.

Perfect thank you good info!!

 

[dstig1]

You got good info by the end of the thread up to now (no you are not in an explosion proof environment, but you get that now...). One thing I will add for outlet heights is my own experience. If you do a lot of woodworking and have sheet goods around (plywood, melamine, OSB, etc) it pays to make sure the BOTTOM of your outlets are about 49" above the floor or a bit more. That way when you lean plywood against the wall, the outlets are still above it and you don't have to worry about damaging cords plugged in. Just a little experience for you... Good luck with your project.

 

[hcallaway]

You got good info by the end of the thread up to now (no you are not in an explosion proof environment, but you get that now...). One thing I will add for outlet heights is my own experience. If you do a lot of woodworking and have sheet goods around (plywood, melamine, OSB, etc) it pays to make sure the BOTTOM of your outlets are about 49" above the floor or a bit more. That way when you lean plywood against the wall, the outlets are still above it and you don't have to worry about damaging cords plugged in. Just a little experience for you... Good luck with your project.

What a great tip.

 

[B7510HSD]

Thanks for all the good info guys!! Just playing the waiting game now for the contractor to get to me on his schedule.