Subpanel for attached garage?

[garrett1812]

I have a house with attached garage (actually integrated garage - two bedrooms above the garage). Panel is located in the basement, opposite end of the house. I had considered adding two additional 20 amp circuits to the garage, but now am wondering if doing this work, would it be best just to add a small subpanel?

Is it as simple as adding the subpanel and wiring (ie does not need grounding rod, etc)?

I know the subpanel is a more expensive option (I estimate ~$100 extra components). I do not have a true need at this time (no compressor, welder, etc) but possibly in the future. Worth the little extra money and time to future proof? Any negatives to doing this?

Thanks.

 

[bczygan]

Great idea!

 

[torqueman2002]

That is what I did, for the same reasons.

I have added a 30A circuit for a 220V compressor since.

One note - the sub-panel ground needs to be non-bonded with the neutral. The purpose is to have 1 point of ground - at the main panel. This avoids ground loop issues (IIRC).

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Yes the neutral bus needs to be isolated from the ground bus and panel enclosure.

U will probably need a ground bar kit.

No grounding electrodes are needed since its in the same structure.

U could use SER since its indoors to make it a little easier vs conduit and individual cond...

 

[zmaxmotorsports]

I have a house with attached garage (actually integrated garage - two bedrooms above the garage). Panel is located in the basement, opposite end of the house. I had considered adding two additional 20 amp circuits to the garage, but now am wondering if doing this work, would it be best just to add a small subpanel?

Is it as simple as adding the subpanel and wiring (ie does not need grounding rod, etc)?

I know the subpanel is a more expensive option (I estimate ~$100 extra components). I do not have a true need at this time (no compressor, welder, etc) but possibly in the future. Worth the little extra money and time to future proof? Any negatives to doing this?

Thanks.

Id figure a couple hundred dollars in materials to be safe including a good panel and some service wire.
If youre going to the trouble to install a sub Id install a bigger panel with extra spaces to save headaches later,Id also bite the bullet and spend the few extra bucks and get a panel with a main breaker to save running back to main panel if you need to work on something or add something in the future.