Two or more Single Circuits to detached garage.

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agolestani

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Hi All,

So the code allows for a single line circuit to a detached garage without placement of a sub panel. I am also aware that a multi-branch circuit must be accompanied by a subpanel at the garage with 4 feeder wire, 2 ground rods,isolated ground and neutral, etc.

My question is regarding adding an additional single circuit line to a detached garage that already has an incoming single circuit. Is one able to add another single circuit run to this detached structure in order to avoid the Subpanel? Also would there be any difference in the answer if the garage were to house a Washer/dryer unit, thus having another metallic path between the house (where main load center is located) and the garage.

Please, and thank you.
 
225.30 considers a multi-wire branch circuit to be considered a single circuit for your purposes. Can you get by with a MWBC ?
 
augie47 said:
225.30 considers a multi-wire branch circuit to be considered a single circuit for your purposes. Can you get by with a MWBC ?
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Would like to bring up to code in order to have the garage lighting/outlets/motor on a separate circuit from the washer/dryer. Currently the garage is supplied by one arm of a multi-wire circuit, the other of which supplies the kitchen I believe. In theory, I can replace the arm going to the garage with a separate MWBC on a 20amp dual handle tie breaker?
 
agolestani said:
Would like to bring up to code in order to have the garage lighting/outlets/motor on a separate circuit from the washer/dryer. Currently the garage is supplied by one arm of a multi-wire circuit, the other of which supplies the kitchen I believe. In theory, I can replace the arm going to the garage with a separate MWBC on a 20amp dual handle tie breaker?
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It sounds like that would be OK all right.
Just recognize that it will not support 240V line to line loads in the future. The combination of 120V and 240V loads would require a feeder and additional breakers.
 
Yeah I understand the 240 volt issue and not really concerned about its absence. I just want to bite my nails off thinking that my washer dryer are on the same circuit as my garage/accessories and therefore would like to split them.

MWBC will be the best option and will definitely start that project this weekend. Looks like the conduit carrying the current wires is 1/2 flex burred underground. Dont think a 12-3 romex would fit properly through the conduit, and suggestions on wire? Again, since i'm avoiding the sub-panel project, I would like to be able to just do a straight pull of the wires through the conduit rather than do any dig-up of conduit and repull.

Also, just for my knowledge, I am still really curious about the multiple single circuits in the same structure that was originally presented. Does anyone know if that is even legal per NEC?
 
If you have access to both ends of the flex for pulling, why not use individual conductors rated for damp/wet conditions. It will fit much better!
IMO, multiple single circuits are not allowed. The exception to the requirement for a single feeder and panel clearly states one branch circuit, not many branch circuits.
 
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agolestani said:
...........................Looks like the conduit carrying the current wires is 1/2 flex burred underground. Dont think a 12-3 romex would fit properly through the conduit, and suggestions on wire?.......................................
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IF it would fit, it would be illegal. NM is not allowed in a wet location.
It also worth noting if you are referencing standard FMC (flexible metal conduit) likewise it is not allowed in wet locations.
 
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