How To Update Your Detached Garage for the New Year

Electricians in Katy, TX, Share Tips on Updating a Detached Garage

3 Simple Ways To Update a Detached Garage

It seems like there are so many household projects to focus on for the new year. Many projects need a staging area, a place to work, and electricity. This is why updating a detached garage should be first on the list of new year’s projects. Getting the garage updated and up to code will give homeowners a place to work without worrying about the electric capabilities. This is as easy as installing new GFCI outlets and inspecting the wiring and circuit breakers. Plus, as we move through the third decade of the 21st century, installing an electric car charger is a good idea.

It’s much easier and cheaper than most homeowners assume. So read on to discover three ways to update any detached garage.

Upgrade or Install New GFCI Outlets

GFCI outlets (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) are ideal for use in garages, attached or otherwise. In fact, the National Electrical Code states that new structures be built with GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, and garages. The reason for this is to protect people from getting electrocuted. GFCI outlets are designed to shut off the power when they sense a ground fault by comparing the electric current of the hot and neutral sides of the outlets. If there is a difference in current, the outlet cuts off the power, which can save people from receiving a dangerous electrical shock.

GFCI outlets are typically installed in places where moisture or water are present or commonly used. This is why they are installed in bathrooms, kitchen, laundry rooms, and garages. For safety’s sake, they should be installed in all detached garages, as well.

Inspect Wiring and Circuit Breakers

Any time homeowners perform any sort of electrical upgrade, even a minor one; they should have their wiring and circuit breakers inspected. Most electricians recommend that these inspections be done every three years, whether upgrades are imminent or not.

By having a professional inspect wiring and breakers, homeowners cover their bases and ensure that the detached garage is ready for the new year. With new toys received over the holidays, this can help people avoid constant breaker trips while using that new power tool in the garage.

Consider an Electric Car Charger

Electric cars are becoming more and more common. Experts predict that by 2040 every car on the road will have some kind of electric capability. And for most homeowners, installing an electric car charger is much easier and cheaper than one would suspect.

Most people make the mistake of trying to get a car charger that will fully charge an electric car while it sits overnight. However, this is not usually necessary since most people won’t use the entire battery going to and from work. So, installing a low amperage car charger can often be done without upgrading the existing electric service. If the car needs to be topped off, there are commercial charging stations popping up all around that can fully charge a vehicle quickly.

About Electric City

Electric City has been serving the residents of Katy, TX, since 2008. They offer a lifetime guarantee on every job they do. They provide straightforward pricing and utilize the latest technology to ensure homeowners and businesses get the best electrical services in Katy, TX.