ADU electrical requirements can take a while to get your head around, but luckily this task should always handled by a professional, certified electrician.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the basics so you have can get a solid grasp on these requirements and what they actually mean in practice for your ADU.
Let’s jump into it.
What Are ADU Electrical Requirements?
ADU electrical requirements are simply requirements set out by building codes and regulations in your area that govern the electrical supply that is needed for an ADU.
These are slightly different to standard electrical requirements that you might see for a house or an apartment, with new laws around ADUs being introduced each year.
This means things like the rating of the electric panel, whether you have a shared or separate panel, safety regulations, and much more.
What Goes Into Calculating ADU Electrical Requirements?
Most ADUs will have an electrical panel with a rating somewhere in the region of 100 to 250 amps.
This basically means that the panel has enough electrical supply to handle all the appliances within the ADU with ease.
Calculating Electrical Load
In order to determine what electric panel your ADU needs, an electrician will calculate the electrical load and allow for a large safety net to ensure your ADU always has enough power.
ADUs with large appliances or electric heating demand a higher power supply, and this is taken into account during the calculation phase.
Separate vs. Shared Electrical Panels
City requirements can vary on this, with some preferring ADUs to have their own electrical panel while others allow shared if the ADU is not going to be rented out.
Ideally, you’ll work with an electrician who has experience in your area and ADUs specifically, but it’s always worth a call or email to your city inspector to double-check if you’re unsure.
Compliance with Local Codes and Permits
ADU electrical work must follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local codes – as we touched on previously.
Compliance ensures safety and proper installation of outlets, GFCIs, and circuit breakers.
Failure to meet standards can result in legal issues and unsafe conditions, so always double-check and cal lthe city cinspetor if you’re unsure.
Grounding, GFCI, and AFCI Requirements
ADUs require Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs).
These devices protect against electrical shocks and fires, particularly in high-risk areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Local building codes mandate their installation in all ADUs.
Outlets & fixtures
It’s important that any ADU has enough electrical outlets and fixtures (in the right places) to support the needs of the occupants.
This is also taken into account when looking at the electrical requirements.
Wiring
The last thing we’ll touch on with ADU electrical requirements is wiring.
This is obviously a very fundamental part of the electrical requirements, and it also relies a lot on whether the unit will have its own electric panel or a shared one.
Different types of wiring can be used depending on the project.
Future-Proofing the Electrical System
Planning for future electrical needs is essential.
Installing extra capacity in the panel ensures the ADU can handle upgrades like electric vehicle chargers or renewable energy sources (in some places, solar is a prerequisite for building an ADU).
This forward-thinking approach saves time and money in the long run.
The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Electrician
For ADU electrical systems, hiring a professional who is not only qualified but also familiar with ADU installations is super helpful.
Licensed electricians with experience with ADUs (ideally in your location) will make sure all the requirements are met and be able to handle the process without you even getting involved.
Wrapping It Up
A properly designed and installed electrical system is the backbone of a successful ADU project.
From load requirements to the placement of outlets and fixtures, there are many electrical requirements to manage with an ADU.
Always work with a licensed professional to make this process a breeze, and liaise with your city inspector if you have any doubts at any point in the process.