As a low voltage installer looking to install a new 20 amp circuit in my own basement for some electrical outlets, I was hoping to get some input from experienced electricians on here to make sure I am staying within code.
Essentially I am looking to add 3 outlets to the basement via a new circuit.
First off, a basic question as to whether it matters what bus the new breaker is added to. While I understand either bus will provide the 120 Volts needed, I am unsure if there is some type of standard (or requirement for that matter) that governs where the breaker is installed. I attached a picture my panel with the 3 open slots remaining. Part of me wants to install the breaker on the right bus to "balance" the breakers out and part of me wants to occupy the last slot on the left side with the rationale that it would allow a double pole breaker to more easily be installed in the future on the right side if one is needed. Are there any rules or guidelines for this?
More importantly, with respect to NEC code and receptacles installed in unfinished basements, I am aware that GFCI is required. Does it need to be implemented at the circuit breaker level? Do all outlets need to be GFCI receptacles? If I understand the requirements correctly, I believe I have 2 options to properly install this circuit. Option 1 being to use a GFCI breaker (in my case THQL1120GFI) in the panel in which case I can use your basic 20 amp receptacles at all 3 outlets positions and be done and within code. Option 2 would use a standard breaker (THQL1120 in my case), a GFCI receptacle as the FIRST outlet feeding from the panel, and the 2 additional outlets in the basement being your standard 20 amp receptacles feeding off the "Load" terminals of the GFCI receptacle.
Lastly, is there any problem with attaching the outlets to the floor joists overhead? Is it ok to attach an outlet to a 2x4 that is power fastened to the foundation and nailed to the floor joist above?
Anything anyone sees wrong with my thinking?
Essentially I am looking to add 3 outlets to the basement via a new circuit.
First off, a basic question as to whether it matters what bus the new breaker is added to. While I understand either bus will provide the 120 Volts needed, I am unsure if there is some type of standard (or requirement for that matter) that governs where the breaker is installed. I attached a picture my panel with the 3 open slots remaining. Part of me wants to install the breaker on the right bus to "balance" the breakers out and part of me wants to occupy the last slot on the left side with the rationale that it would allow a double pole breaker to more easily be installed in the future on the right side if one is needed. Are there any rules or guidelines for this?
More importantly, with respect to NEC code and receptacles installed in unfinished basements, I am aware that GFCI is required. Does it need to be implemented at the circuit breaker level? Do all outlets need to be GFCI receptacles? If I understand the requirements correctly, I believe I have 2 options to properly install this circuit. Option 1 being to use a GFCI breaker (in my case THQL1120GFI) in the panel in which case I can use your basic 20 amp receptacles at all 3 outlets positions and be done and within code. Option 2 would use a standard breaker (THQL1120 in my case), a GFCI receptacle as the FIRST outlet feeding from the panel, and the 2 additional outlets in the basement being your standard 20 amp receptacles feeding off the "Load" terminals of the GFCI receptacle.
Lastly, is there any problem with attaching the outlets to the floor joists overhead? Is it ok to attach an outlet to a 2x4 that is power fastened to the foundation and nailed to the floor joist above?
Anything anyone sees wrong with my thinking?