Recommendations for electrical distribution in new construction

[muncie21]

OK, so I'm having a house built with 200 amp incoming service. I requested a 220 outlet in the garage (for future compressor and/or welder).

So here's my question, being that the framing hasn't started, what suggestions should I make for how the garage (attached) electrical distribution is laid out? Is it a big deal (or worth it) to ask for a 100 amp subpanel to be installed in the garage? What about 40 amp outlets versus standard 20/15 amp ones? Any other suggestions regarding electrical that should be done during construction?

BTW, this is being built by a builder (typical row house) not yours truly, so don't worry, a licensed professional will (in theory) be performing the work.

**added** I read about the 40amp outlet elsewhere on this forum. I assumed it was 120VAC, by the context of the thread, but could be wrong. Figuring that bigger is better (like most Americans) I threw it up as a suggestion.**

 

[Stuart in MN]

It's a good idea to have a subpanel in the garage. You then have just a single branch circuit from the main panel instead of multiple circuits, and it also makes adding more garage circuits easier in the future. It will probably cost more, of course. The size of the panel will vary depending on what you have planned, a 100 amp subpanel may work but a 60 amp may be more than adequate. (edit: I'm assuming the garage is attached to the house; if it's a detached structure you pretty much need a subpanel if you want multiple circuits out there.)

Not sure what you mean about 40 amp outlets...if you're talking about 120vac (like the regular 15 or 20 amp outlets you have everywhere else in your house) there's no such thing, at least for residential use - there are 120vac 40 amp outlets, but they are only rarely used in industrial settings. If you mean a 240vac outlet that would be used with a welder or air compressor, that may or may not make sense depending on whether you already have such a power tool that requires a 40 amp circuit.

 

[Mustang51js]

40 amp outlets aren't what your thinking they are,seems like you were thinking a 40 amp breaker or a outlet that handles 40 amps but uses the standard plug. It never hurts to have a sub panel and would put outlets every 4 feet if you can. Also think about future plans and have them run 40-50 amp outlets if you plan on having big equipment. Then you can change breaker or plug to either one. You have to see if it's cost effective also since some builders hammer you on extras.