Free homeowner planning guide
Detached garage and workshop electrical checklist
Plan tools, feeder capacity, routing, circuits, lighting, and future equipment before concrete and finishes make changes expensive.
Do not excavate until underground utilities have been located through the appropriate service.
Define the workshop loads
- List lighting, receptacles, doors, HVAC, refrigeration, compressors, dust collection, saws, welders, lifts, chargers, and security
- Photograph nameplates and record the voltage and rated load of large equipment
- Identify which tools may operate at the same time and which need dedicated circuits
- Plan for future equipment, EV charging, outdoor power, backup power, and a possible change in building use
- Lay out benches, machines, storage, vehicles, doors, and exterior work areas before placing devices
Plan the supply and route
- Document the home service, panel, known electrical problems, and other planned major loads
- Measure the approximate route and note driveways, concrete, utilities, roots, drainage, gates, and landscaping
- Coordinate utility locating, trenching, conduit, inspections, and hardscape before excavation
- Choose an accessible local panel location with safe working space and practical room for planned circuits
- Discuss feeder capacity, voltage drop, grounding, bonding, disconnecting, and surge protection with the electrician
Prepare for construction and turnover
- Assign responsibility for permits, trenching, structural penetrations, concrete, equipment connections, and repairs
- Select lighting for benches, machines, general movement, entrances, and exterior security
- Use equipment and protection suited to rain, humidity, dust, condensation, pests, and physical damage
- Photograph underground and concealed routes before backfill, insulation, or wall finishes
- Keep panel directories, equipment schedules, permits, inspection records, and warranties
Building a garage or workshop?
Bolt Electric installs feeders, panels, circuits, lighting, equipment connections, surge protection, and EV charging throughout Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.
Request an electrical appointment