Tips About Safely Wiring a Garage

Renovating or remodeling a garage will usually require wiring a garage. Bad wiring can lead to unsafe conditions such as fire and even death. Wiring is a major part of the garage because it controls the lights, sockets and the garage door. You want to follow the tips that can lead to proper wiring that can prevent accidents.

• Purchase a book that can guide you with wiring for plugs, lights and other components in the garage. These books can be purchased from your local home improvement store. They will come in handy for any of your wiring projects and are filled with valuable information.

• Decide what you will be using the plugs in the garage for. Different plugs require different voltages and the voltages cannot not be exceeded. Exceeding them can cause fires and damage to products. For example, drills, saws and lights use a 120 volt outlet. Air compressors and welders use a 220 volt outlet.

• There is a proper way to wire outlet and plugs. The black wire connects to the brass screws, the white wire connects to silver screws and the copper wire connects the ground screw. The wires should be wrapped tightly around the screws and tightened. Use the books for the best illustrations.

• You will have to find a source for the power in older homes such as a breaker box or another plug. It is easier to run wire to an attic and back down because of the insulation if there is an existing wall.

• Wires should run between boxes and hang out at least eight inches for future work in new constructions. Wires should be attached to the studs least every six inches from the box and about every 12 inches. This ensures that the wire will stay against the stud. This also will keep the wires from shorting out when sheetrock is installed.

• Attach the outlet to the wires and allow them to hang out for final connection. This will also allow you to check for shorts for connecting the wires. Make sure the copper wire and white wires do not come in contact with the black wires or any screws. Make sure you take your time when pushing the wires into the box. Use a flashlight for safety.