Hello all,

I am finishing a basement. I had a licensed electrician come out and install a 100 amp sub panel in the basement that I will wire from. I realize that code is different from area to area just looking for some guidance.

Do my outlets need to be higher off the ground since it is a basement install?
Is there any reason I can't install a baseboard electric heater?
What are the guidelines for running wiring through the stud wall... how high must the wire be? How high is too high? How many wires can I run together before they eventual branch off to different areas?

Thanks
B

#1 no #2 no, but they are not efficient,#3 noreal guideline, just try and keep the wires level and make sure you leave some slack in the wall above each outlet, light box, etc.
#4 you can run as many wires as you can fit in the hole you cut in the studs. Hole shuold be set back about 1 1/2" to prevents drywall screws from hitting the wire. Good Luck

Thanks for your quick and concise answer!

What do you mean when you say that baseboard heaters are not efficient? I thought they were close to 100% efficient?

I just mean they are electric and draw power like crazy. You are better off with natural gas heating or whatever you furnace is running off right now. Can you not just run more ducts to heat basement? There should be at least 2-3 existing heat vents in the basement already. If that is the case, you can just use those to heat bedroom,bathroom or what have you. Don't be scared to move them, it not difficult, just a little time.

IC

I live in central PA and heat the whole house with baseboard electric. ITs just under 1800 sq feet. I am actually pretty happy with the bills. Our biggest electric bill this winter was $240. I have been comparing notes with friends and relatives that have gas (natural or LP) and they are spending about the same with the current gas prices.

So I guess the short answer is: there are no ducts anywhere in the house. I thought about putting in an LP heater rated fireplace.

Thanks
B