wrote in message
ups.com...
I'd apprecaite some feedback on my plan for wiring electrical outlets
in my basement (which I'm in the process of finishing)...

I'm finishing about 2/3 of my basement with the remaining 1/3 being a
dedicated storage area. The perimeter of the finished area is about
180 feet and I'm planning on having about 20 recepticals. I will only
be using a fraction of the recepticals at any given time but I just
want to make sure I always have one in the spot I need it, so I'm
throwing in extra ones.

I plan on using 12-2 copper wire with a 20A breaker & 20A rated
outlets. At first I was considering using 14-2 with a 15A breaker but
I'm concerned about voltage drop over my relatively long 180foot run.
The extra cost and hassle of installing the 12-2 is something I don't
have any issues with so I decided to go that route. I'll be routing
the 12-2 through traditional wood frame 2x4 walls I have setup against
my poured concrete basement walls. I have already drilled 3/4 inch
holes in the studs.

I'm installing the outlets so that they are 18inches above the basement
floor and spaced less that 12feet apart (no more than 6feet from a
doorway). The routing of the wiring through the wall is at least
12inches above the outlets.

Any feedback on my plan? Anything I should look out for or consider?
Anything I should watch out for using 12-2 with a 20A breaker?

Thanks,
Kevin


I concur that you should have more than one receptacle circuit. I would
also put the refrigerator on its own circuit. Here in New Jersey it is
required to have at least one GFI receptacle in the unfinished space and it
is also a requirement to have a three way switch at the top and bottom of
the basement stairs for the lights near and over the stairs. We are also
required to have a ceiling mounted interconnected smoke detector within
three feet of the bottom step of the basement stairs. You should also have
a GFI receptacle near the furnace/air conditioning/water heater space for
servicing purposes.

You might also want to install cable TV and phone jacks in a few places.


John Grabowski
http://www.mrelectrician.tv