The Best Way to Get Power to Your Shed
Whether it’s going to be a workshop, she-shed, remote office, or entertainment space, any shed you’re planning to build on your property will likely need power. Having electricity in your shed significantly improves its usability, regardless of what uses you intend for it. But how do you get electricity to an outbuilding on your property? Read this article to learn a couple of routes you could choose—and get help deciding which is best for you.
Run Electrical Lines
The traditional method for getting electricity to an outbuilding is to run electrical lines from your home’s power source to the shed. There are a few methods for doing this. The first is a cheap option, but not a great one: a long extension cord. Technically, this doesn’t count as “running electrical lines,” but it can get the job done if you don’t have many power requirements in your shed. An extension cord will give you a hookup to your home’s power, but it’s neither a safe nor permanent option.
The second option is an aboveground cable. This will likely require an electrician and a permit, but it doesn’t require digging. Because the cable is aboveground, you’ll have to make sure the gauge wire is thick and sturdy to withstand exposure to the elements.
Finally, you can run underground electrical wires. There are a couple of methods for doing this, but they all require a significant project, digging up of your yard, and the aid of an electrician.
Small Off-Grid Solar System
Many people are turning to a newer option when building outbuildings is installing a small, off-grid solar system on their shed. Typically, sheds don’t use a lot of power, so the solar power system for one doesn’t have to be very large. A solar kit with a few panels, inverter, and battery storage can often provide the electricity you need for most uses.
Of course, a solar setup does limit your power supply somewhat; if the power runs out, you can’t use any electrical devices inside your shed until the sun starts shining again. However, a solar-powered shed means no increase in your utility bill and no running underground electrical lines.
A Combination of Both
If you’re planning to use your shed a lot, it may be a good idea to run an electrical line to it while also installing a solar power system. The solar system reduces the shed’s impact on your utility bill, while the underground electrical line can provide a reliable power source if you run out of stored solar energy.
If you’re installing a shed on your property, make sure to speak to a professional about finding the right solar panels, Sunny Boy inverter, and battery to power it.
