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Division 26

Division 26

Division 26: Electrical

Division 26 outlines power distribution, lighting systems, wiring, panels, and all electrical equipment specifications. Understand how to read riser diagrams, lighting schedules, and perform accurate takeoffs and estimates.

🎥 Study Video

Add your training video on Division 26 plan reading or electrical estimating here.

📄 Electrical Cheat Sheet

Download our Division 26 cheat sheet covering conduit sizes, panel coordination, feeder routing, and electrical load considerations.

Download Electrical Cheat Sheet

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💡 Instructor Insights

  • Review load calculations and identify panel and circuiting specs in Division 26.
  • Check for fixture types, counts, and mounting methods in lighting schedules.
  • Be sure to locate transformer requirements, grounding specs, and special systems calls.
  • Coordinate closely with Division 27 and 28 for low-voltage and life safety systems.
  • Many electrical specs require submittals, samples, and testing procedures — don’t miss them.

📥 Quiz & Resources

Reinforce your understanding of Division 26 — from load calcs to lighting schedules and scope coordination.

  1. Where can you find breaker and panel requirements in the specs?
    Answer: In the load calculations, riser diagrams, and panelboard schedules within Division 26.
  2. What details should be confirmed in a lighting fixture schedule?
    Answer: Fixture type, voltage, lamp info, and mounting method (surface, pendant, grid, etc.).
  3. Why are transformers and grounding systems important?
    Answer: They impact layout, power quality, and safety — specs will often define impedance, location, and bonding methods.
  4. What should you cross-check in Divisions 27 and 28?
    Answer: Any low-voltage rough-in, device power, or system crossover to avoid missing or duplicating scope.
  5. What type of testing is often required under Division 26?
    Answer: Megger insulation tests, continuity checks, load testing, and lighting controls commissioning.
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Division 26: Electrical Systems

🔹 Key Teaching Points

1️⃣ Load Calculations & Panel Schedules

  • Review service load calculations and confirm panelboards, circuits, and feeders match the electrical riser.
  • Specs may include fault current ratings, breaker types, and short-circuit coordination requirements.

2️⃣ Lighting Fixtures & Mounting

  • Lighting schedules list fixture types, lamp data, voltage, and mounting type (ceiling grid, surface, pendant).
  • Check for alternate fixtures or owner-furnished items listed in Division 01 or the drawings.

3️⃣ Transformers, Grounding & Special Systems

  • Specs often detail transformer type, location, and impedance rating — these affect layout and coordination.
  • Grounding and bonding methods, lightning protection, and power conditioning are typically listed here.

4️⃣ Coordination with Low Voltage Divisions

  • Electrical specs may reference Division 27 (Communications) and Division 28 (Life Safety/Security).
  • Clearly identify what Division 26 includes — especially rough-in, power, and equipment support.

5️⃣ Submittals, Samples & Testing

  • Division 26 often includes detailed procedures for product data, shop drawings, mockups, and electrical testing.
  • Include time and cost for megger testing, system verification, and lighting controls programming.

✅ Wrap-Up Summary

  • Division 26 covers all major power, lighting, and grounding systems — read carefully for scope overlaps and testing needs.
  • Coordinate with Division 27 and 28 to avoid duplicated or missed low-voltage scope.
  • Be prepared for extensive submittal and quality control requirements that affect closeout.