Overhead electrical wire is a great way to power up your garage without having to run underground wires through your yard and through the wall. It is easier to install and maintain than an underground wiring system, and it allows you to easily upgrade your wiring should the need arise. However, there are a few things you need to know before you begin this project.
First, check with your local building department to make sure your home’s current electrical system is in compliance with codes. This is especially important if you plan to add or change a new electrical circuit for your garage. It is also important to note that running electrical wire to your garage requires inspection and permission from the local utility services.
Second, take a look around your home and consider any areas that could be in danger of being damaged while you are adding overhead electrical wire. This includes anything that is close to the garage, including windows and doors, as well as objects like tools that could become a hazard while you are working with the wires.
Third, remove any loose objects that could come into contact with the wires while you are installing them. This will ensure that the wires are not damaged while you are completing this project, and will also prevent any issues from occurring down the line later on.
Fourth, measure the length of the wires you need to run to each electrical outlet or receptacle in your garage. This is an important step because it will ensure that you are able to connect each piece of the wire to the correct outlet or receptacle.
Fifth, if you are going to use conduits for the cables, be sure to buy plastic ones that can handle heavy loads of weight. These are typically a little more expensive than standard metal conduits, but they will be much stronger and easier to work with.
Once you have your conduits, you can now start putting the cables in place. This involves stringing insulated guy wire between each conduit, which will help to support the weight of the cable. The guy wire will loop around every foot or so, leaving a little slack in it for expansion and contraction when the weather changes.
Next, you’ll need to staple the cable down every 48 inches or so. This will help to keep the cable tight to the conduits and also prevent any drywall from being cut down the line. It is also a good idea to pull the cables tight to corners and beams in order to ensure that they are secure, especially when drywall is installed over them.
After you’ve finished stapling the cables down, be sure to keep them trimmed to a consistent length. This will ensure that the cables are neat and organized, as well as that they don’t get bent or frayed while you are preparing them for installation in your garage.