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TheFishBanjo t1_j14gxtn wrote

If you run your tablesaw into some thick wood while your shop vac is running (on the same branch circuit), you may see the (incandescent) lights dim or even trip a breaker. Sometimes you have a couple of outlets on different branches so you can pull different equipment into different places to help get by for a while.

Usually, your panel has some unfilled spots where additional branches (and circuit breakers) can be added. You might want to "get ahead of the curve" by adding some outlets for your equipment. In that case, get 20A breakers and run the heavier wire for 20A service (it is yellow sheathing instead of white). Get the corresponding 20A receptables which have a little difference in where the prongs go in to remind you. Of course, you can label the faceplate as 20A.

I like having extension cords hanging down from the basement shop ceiling so I added outlets high. My shop area is small and I have machines on wheels that I roll in and out of places. Outlets that are behind benches and tool chests are difficult to use.

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