I'm looking to run electricity to my metal shop, but I've heard mixed advice about needing a second meter and using commercial-grade materials since the structure is metal instead of wood. I'm located in Texas, so I want to know if anyone else has gone through this and what the requirements might be for a setup like mine.
2 Answers
If you're not planning to use the shop for business, you likely won't need a second meter. Just make sure you're considering a service upgrade if you're going to run heavy machinery like CNC equipment. I'd recommend installing a couple of 20A circuits for regular needs, plus at least two 240V twist-locks for welding or charging. Check local codes about conduit too – solid might be preferred over flexible. It could also be good to have a subpanel in the shop for convenience, plus a GFCI for safety.
From my experience, adding a second meter may not be worth it unless you're setting up a completely separate building. It can also add extra monthly fees. When I was building a separate dwelling, I found that upgrading to a 320A service was a more cost-effective choice instead of dealing with the complications of a second meter. Weigh your options carefully to see what works best for your situation!