I’m in the process of remolding my basement, basically 2 20x20 rooms. My question is how many separate circuits do I need for the electrical. All I’m talking about is lights and general use outlets. Could all the lights and outlets be on one circuit, or should they be separated? By room or by function (outlets and lights)? The lights will be the smaller (3 inch???) flood type lamps.

Thanks

Scott

labman

Unless you plan a giant entertainment center or computers, I think one for the all the lights and a second one for the outlets will be enough. Might not start running wires until tkrussel confirms this.

tkrussell

As a minimum guide line, code requires no less than 1-20 amp circuit, or two 15 amp circuits. Installing more than code requires is recommended, and practical.

Depending on the use of the rooms, will dictate how many circuits are needed. This is a judgement based on proposed use of each room. If they are bedrooms, One circuit for outlets in each room, and the lights from both on one, a total of three circuits.

Beyond this, really need to know the purpose of each room to help with recommending additional circuits that may be needed, along with any appliances that may be installed.

frohme

Thanks for your input guys. Its actually one L shaped room 20x20 each direction. There will be a computer, Tv, DVD palayer but besides that I doubt the outlets would get used much.

Scott

tkrussell

Two outlet circuits should be fine for what you listed, if plans are for any electric heat uints add another circuit.

One circuit for lighting, unless you plan to have many incandescent high hat recess fixtures. Two are good thou, in event one circuit trips, you will still have light in the room.

Be sure there is at least one smoke detector., hard wired, and preferable connected to other SD in the house.

Seems you have about 50 lineal foot of wall space. You should have no less 5 outlets spaced no more than 12 foot apart. Be generous and add outlets to the locations your equipment will be located, and be sure not all outles are behind furniture. I would have no less than 10 outlets in this room.

Obviously, dont forget telephone and cable is available.

labman

It is easier to run ethernet cable before the walls are finished too. It is easy to fish any cable from an interior wall down to an unfinished basement or crawl space. It is easy to do wall plate ethernet connections without a $35 crimping tool. difficult to do cable ends.