DIY Builds
Photo by Ksenia Chernaya Pexels Logo Photo: Ksenia Chernaya

Can you connect electricity to a shed?

Although most areas will allow electricity to be installed in a shed, you will most likely need a permit to do so. Having the necessary permit(s) in place prior to starting the project can save you time and money, as you won't have to worry about delays or deal with fines once the project is completed.

Is it cheaper to pave or concrete?
Is it cheaper to pave or concrete?

It does not matter the style you choose as there is a cost effective option within that range. Paving is cheaper compared to concrete and is a...

Read More »
What color is yellow and white mixed?
What color is yellow and white mixed?

Tints usually look like lighter, paler versions of the color that white is mixed with. Combining white and yellow is a similar situation. Mixing...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Your shed most likely can have electricity, which can add functionality and even resale value to your property. As helpful as having lights, heat, and outlets in your shed can be, running electricity to a shed can be a big undertaking. Before you get started, there are a few important things to consider; regulations in your area, potential safety hazards, and picking your power source. In this article we will review each of these key factors and offer suggestions on how to address each one.

Getting Electricity to Your Shed: Regulations and Hazards

The first thing you need to consider before taking any further steps to add electricity to your shed is to check your area’s zoning regulations. Although most areas will allow electricity to be installed in a shed, you will most likely need a permit to do so. Having the necessary permit(s) in place prior to starting the project can save you time and money, as you won’t have to worry about delays or deal with fines once the project is completed. Beyond regulations, safety should also be a big consideration. Working with live electricity is an extremely dangerous process, even for a trained electrician, so before attempting this project yourself, consider reaching out to trained professional for help. Saving a few dollars is not worth the risk of permanent injury, or worse. Hiring a pro will ensure the job is completed safely and meets the proper regulations.

What Are My Options for Putting Power to a Shed?

One of the last big hurdles to consider is the type of electricity you’ll use to power your shed. The three most common options to choose from are a generator, solar panels, or permanent wiring the shed to your main electrical panel. Depending on your needs, each option brings its own set of pros and cons. Hooking Up a Generator to a Shed: One of the easiest options is to use a generator to power your shed. However, it’s important to not put and operate the generator inside the shed. Operating a generator in such a closed environment creates a dangerous environment as deadly fumes quickly accumulate and can lead to death. In addition, you’ll also need to find suitable storage for your generator when not in use, because exposing it to the elements can cause other risks to you and your property. While a generator seems like a simple solution it is also the most labor intensive and most expensive type of power to use. The generator will need to be maintained, serviced and filled with fuel on a regular basis.

Related Topic: The ABCs of Safe Generator Operation

What size garage can I build without planning?
What size garage can I build without planning?

However the regulations are based around reasonable size. You can build a garage without planning permission as long as the garage doesn't take up...

Read More »
What flower means regret?
What flower means regret?

purple hyacinth Hyacinth. The purple hyacinth specifically, represents sorrow, regret and forgiveness. Dec 17, 2020

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Using a Solar Panel for Shed Electricity: If you decide to go with solar power, you’ll need to calculate your shed’s wattage hours demand, so you can buy the appropriately sized panels to meet your electricity needs. One of the biggest benefits of using solar panels is also one of their bigger drawbacks. Since solar panels are reliant on the sun to produce power, their usefulness will be impacted by the location of your shed. If your shed is under a tree line or in a location that does not receive much direct sunlight throughout the day, electricity production will be significantly reduced.

Related Topic: Are Solar Panels Worth the Cost? Mr. Electric Weighs In

Running Electricity to a Shed: The most reliable and safest option will be to have electricity professionally installed using your main electrical panel as the source. This will provide consistent, year-round power without the risks associated with a generator or potential decreased solar power production caused by less sunlight. The biggest drawbacks to running electrical wiring to your shed is the inherent danger of trying to do it yourself, the hassle of digging trenches to bury conduit, and ensuring the job meets local code specifications.

Run Electricity to Your Shed

Whether you like to tinker around the yard or enjoy having a separate workshop away from your house, having electricity in your shed can prove very useful and convenient. But because of the safety issues associated with working with electricity, powering up your shed is one project that’s best left to a pro. And the pros at your local Mr. Electric can help. Backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise, we will help evaluate your needs, identify the best solution, and get you shed up a running with the power you need. To get started, give us a call at (844) 866-1367 or schedule an appointment online today.

Do you need planning permission to put a toilet in a garage?
Do you need planning permission to put a toilet in a garage?

Planning permission is generally not required to add a bathroom into a property, assuming it is not forming part of an extension to the building....

Read More »
How expensive is it to move a shed?
How expensive is it to move a shed?

Here are some average costs of moving a shed to a new location or to a new space on the same site: Local Shed Onsite Move: Approximately $250 to...

Read More »
What size rough opening do I need for a 9x7 garage door?
What size rough opening do I need for a 9x7 garage door?

As a general rule the rough opening should be the exact same size as the door you intend to install. A common single car door size of 9ft wide by...

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »
What country is metal work?
What country is metal work?

metalwork - Belgium and Holland | Britannica.

Read More »