Honestly, I think people go way overboard with the future-proofing sometimes. Unless you’re dead set on adding big stuff like a welder or EV charger soon, a simple 20A circuit might be all you need for lights and a few outlets. I get wanting to avoid digging again, but at some point it just becomes overkill. Sometimes “just enough” really is enough.
Totally get what you mean—sometimes people want to plan for every possible future gadget, but it can get a bit much. I worked with a client who was all about “future-proofing” their garage and ended up with so many unused outlets, it almost looked like a spaceship. For most setups, a basic circuit is honestly plenty. Unless you’re dreaming of turning the garage into a workshop or studio down the line, keeping it simple just makes life easier (and neater).
It’s funny how “future-proofing” can spiral out of control. I’ve seen garages wired up like command centers, only for the owners to use a single outlet for years. There’s definitely value in planning ahead, but overdoing it can just add cost and clutter. Unless you’re certain you’ll need heavy equipment or EV charging, a straightforward setup is usually more than enough. Sometimes less really is more, especially when it comes to resale—buyers get overwhelmed by too many bells and whistles.
Totally get what you mean about the “command center” garages. I’ve seen setups that look like NASA’s backup control room, but the only thing plugged in is a mini-fridge and maybe a leaf blower. There’s this urge to prep for every possible future gadget, but honestly, most folks just want a place to park the car and stash some tools.
I will say—if you’re even *thinking* about an EV down the road, running a heavier gauge wire now can save a headache later. But otherwise? All those extra circuits just end up as a spiderweb of unused outlets and breaker labels nobody understands. Plus, all that extra copper isn’t exactly eco-friendly or wallet-friendly.
Funny thing is, buyers walk in and see all those switches and panels... half of them get nervous they’ll break something just turning on the lights. Sometimes simple really does win out, both for your sanity and resale.
Totally agree—sometimes less is more, especially when it comes to wiring. I always wonder, do people actually use half those outlets, or is it just “future-proofing” gone wild? I get the EV prep, though. Makes me curious—how many folks actually regret not running that heavier wire later?
