When is Sub-panel Neccessary?

[wacka.thumb]

I have an attached 2 car garage that i want to use as a 3 season workshop. It has a real electricity shortage, though. I want to add at least 2 110/20A circuits and maybe a 220 circuit for heat. The main panel (200A - ex electric heat) for the house is on the other side of a studwall and has lots of capacity and empty slots.

Do I need/should I have a subpanel for the garage, or just run everything from the main panel and through the wall?

Any advice or things to watch for appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[laser3kw]

can't answer when code says to. But I would have a sub panel in a dedicated work area for convenience and safety. Also make distribution to the area much easier

 

[theoldwizard1]

The only case I know of for certain where it is "required" is if more than one feed to a detached building is required to service all loads.

If your garage is attached it is not required. It may be cheaper and more convenientto install a sub-panel in your garage.


Opps ! You are in CA ! Better check local codes !!!

 

[sberry]

If you got slots run a couple circuits, it doesn't get any better than that. Hook the wires up just like similar circuits are. Put one of the new outlets with 4x4 box. in the same stud bay as the panel, you can reach thru the hole to add wire and connectors.
Depending how far lateral runs need to be can reach a stud either way thru the wall with that method, 4 ft one way, 4 the other.