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When you’re in the garage, it can be a bit frustrating if you’re always looking for an outlet to plug into. I had this issue as I recently installed Husky Garage Storage Cabinets, where I have two workbench tops with nowhere to plug into. At one spot, I needed a number of outlets to set up a charging station for chargers, printers, and other devices. At the other spot, I needed some outlets to be able to quickly plug-in equipment whenever I needed it.
Here’s where a long outlet strip comes in handy. It’s really nice when you can mount it to the wall where it’s not sititng on your workbench or table, but easily accessible right there if you need it. I picked up a couple of these 6 ft. all black outlet strips. There are all kinds of options out there, but I chose this one because it was all black and looks really nice mounted to the wall. Some outlet strips have visibly-colored outlets, which I did not want to see in my workshop– it would just stand out too much.
Long Heavy Duty 16 Outlet Power Strip (Black): 4-ft / 6-ft /10-ft
Mounting these power strips is pretty easy. You do want to make sure you mount them to the studs in the walls since this is electrical that we’re talking about. The power strip comes with two plastic mounting clips that simply mount to the wall. The power strip will then clip into these two mounting clips, but while the power strip is clipped in, it can actually slide back and forth for adjustability. This makes it easier to install the plastic clips directly onto your studs as you can still have it mounted securely to the wall, but be able to still move the power strip left and right as you want it.
Measure out the area that you want to install the power strip to. Find the studs, and pre-drill holes for your mounting screws. Also make sure that the brackets are level prior to securing them to the wall. The pre-drilled hole diameter should match the diameter of the screw shaft, not the threads. Use either construction screws or even decking screws; do not use drywall screws.
Measuring Tape: DEWALT Atomic Compact Series 30 ft. Tape Measure
Stud Finder: Zircon StudSensor A100
Power Drill & Bits: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit + Screwdriver/Drill Bit Set
Level: IRWIN Tools 1000 I-beam Level, 36-Inch
Then, you just press the power strip into the mounting clips you just mounted and you’re done! Plug in the outlet strip and you now have easy access to multiple plugs at your workstation.
At both of my workbenches, I have the same outlet strip installed. On the right side, I use it as a charging station for all my battery powered tools and other battery charging devices. On the left side (closer to the garage door), I have easy access to plug in any equipment like my polisher, vacuum, extractor, etc. You just can’t have enough outlets to plug into!
