With the ever changing scope of the garage new proposals are ahead for the 2017 NEC (National Electrical Code). This proposal has been adopted.


Below is a proposal for the requirements for garage receptacles.

A new requirement has been proposed to require at least one 20-ampere rated branch circuit to supply dwelling unit garage 125-volt receptacle outlet(s). Previously, this branch circuit could be rated 15- or 20-ampere. Many appliances and tools used in dwelling unit garages are rated at 12- to 16-amperes or higher and demand at least a 20-ampere rated branch circuit. A 15-ampere rated branch circuit in the modern dwelling unit garage is typically not sufficient. While most residential electricians are already installing 20-ampere rated branch circuits in dwelling unit garages, the NEC currently does not require or demand this 20-ampere rating.

Figure 3: At least one 20-ampere branch circuit is now required to supply dwelling unit garage receptacle outlet(s).”

With the new electrical code around the corner I will be monitoring some of the changes that will be introduced.

“I can live with doubt and uncertainty and not knowing. I think it is much more interesting to live not knowing than to have answers that might be wrong."

Richard Feynman

NCW Home Inspections, LLC  is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Oroville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more…  

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If you find any errors or have additional information that would expand on any code, building standards or manufacturer requirements please let me know.