If you’re considering wiring your shed, it’s essential to understand what you’ll need and how to approach the task safely. Whether you’re creating an outdoor workspace, a hobby area, or a storage shed, having power in your shed can greatly enhance its functionality. However, because most sheds are not connected to the mains power of your home, you’ll need to wire the shed on a separate circuit from your house. This may sound complicated, but with the right planning and focus on safety, it’s a manageable task. If in doubt, hiring a qualified electrician is always the safest option.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to wire a shed and how to do it safely.
What Do You Intend to Power in the Shed?
Before starting any wiring project, it’s important to know exactly what you plan to power in your shed. Will you be using it for storage, or is it going to be a workspace with lighting, power tools, and possibly a heater? The number and type of devices you plan to run will determine how many sockets, lights, and other components you’ll need to install.
For example, a basic shed may only need one or two sockets and lighting, while a fully equipped workshop might require more complex wiring. You may also need to add outdoor power outlets for tools like lawnmowers, pond pumps, or garden lights.
Understanding your power requirements will allow you to create a detailed plan and provide your electrician with the specifications they need for a safe and efficient installation.
Choosing the Right Lighting for Your Shed
When it comes to lighting, there are two common options for sheds: LED or fluorescent lights. LED lighting is generally the preferred choice for sheds, thanks to its energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and brighter illumination. Fluorescent lights are less efficient, and the bulbs tend to blow faster, requiring frequent replacements.
It’s important to remember that LED lights cannot be used with fluorescent ballasts, so choose your lighting wisely from the start. For longer-lasting and more energy-efficient lighting, LED is the way to go.
What You’ll Need to Wire a Shed
To get started on your shed wiring, you’ll need the following materials:
- Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) Cable: This is used to safely run electricity from your house to your shed, and it’s the best option for underground installations because it’s durable and moisture-resistant.
- Fuse Box/Consumer Unit: You’ll need a consumer unit to control the electrical supply to the shed.
- Sockets, Switches, and Light Fittings: Choose the type and number of sockets and switches based on what you plan to power in the shed.
- Electrical Wires: Ensure you select the right wires for your power needs.
- RCD (Residual Current Device): This device cuts off power if there’s a fault, providing essential protection from electric shock.
If you hire an electrician, they will typically include all the necessary materials in their service.
Things to Consider Before Wiring Your Shed
There are several important factors to consider before you begin wiring your shed:
- Location of the Cable: The most sensible option is to bury the SWA cable underground. However, you’ll need to plan where the cable will run from your fuse box to your shed. It’s a good idea to mark the path on the ground before the work begins.
- Circuit Capacity: If your fuse box doesn’t have enough available circuits, you may need to upgrade it. This is a job for a qualified electrician, and it may increase the cost of the installation, so it’s important to budget for this.
- Cable Size: The size of the SWA cable depends on the power requirements of your shed. For most applications, a 16mm to 25mm cable is sufficient. The cable should be connected to an RCD of 20 amps, which is more than adequate for most shed applications.
Finding the Right Electrician
Unless you’re a qualified electrician yourself, it’s safest to hire a professional for the job. Electrical work can be dangerous if not done properly, and hiring a qualified electrician ensures the work is done to code and meets safety standards.
Here’s what to look for in an electrician:
- Qualifications and Insurance: Always check that the electrician is qualified and insured. Ask for documentation and make sure it’s up to date.
- Customer Reviews: Look for reviews or testimonials from previous clients. A trustworthy electrician will have positive feedback from their past work.
- Experience: Make sure the electrician has experience with projects similar to yours, such as wiring outdoor buildings.
- Communication: A good electrician will be willing to answer all your questions and provide clear, professional advice.
The Risks of Poorly Installed Shed Wiring
If wiring is not properly installed, you risk overloading the sockets, which could cause overheating, short circuits, or even electrical fires. Frayed or damaged wires could lead to power surges or appliance damage. Most importantly, poor electrical work can put lives at risk, making it crucial to ensure everything is installed correctly.
Safety Considerations
The safety of the wiring is paramount, especially in an outdoor space like a shed. An RCD is essential for protecting against electric shock and will disconnect the power in case of a fault. Installing the wiring correctly and ensuring the system is protected by an RCD will minimize the risk of accidents.
Should You DIY or Hire an Electrician?
Although wiring a shed may sound like a DIY project, it’s important to recognize that electrical installations are best left to professionals unless you have the relevant qualifications. Mistakes can be costly and dangerous. The right electrician will ensure your shed is safely and efficiently wired, minimizing risks and ensuring your electrical system works as it should.
Conclusion
Wiring a shed can be a valuable upgrade, especially if you use it as a workspace or hobby area. While it’s not the most complicated electrical task, safety is key. Planning ahead, knowing what you need, and hiring a qualified electrician will ensure a safe and effective wiring job. Remember to use the right materials, such as SWA cable and an RCD, and always follow safety guidelines to prevent any future issues. Get in touch if you need any help!
