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(Replace with your actual PDF.)
💡 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.
- Where can you find breaker and panel requirements in the specs?
Answer: In the load calculations, riser diagrams, and panelboard schedules within Division 26. - What details should be confirmed in a lighting fixture schedule?
Answer: Fixture type, voltage, lamp info, and mounting method (surface, pendant, grid, etc.). - Why are transformers and grounding systems important?
Answer: They impact layout, power quality, and safety — specs will often define impedance, location, and bonding methods. - 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. - What type of testing is often required under Division 26?
Answer: Megger insulation tests, continuity checks, load testing, and lighting controls commissioning.
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.