An electric subpanel is a secondary panel that is installed separately from the main electrical panel and is used to distribute power to different parts of a building or home. It is used to expand the electrical capacity of an existing system, or to provide power to a new addition or renovation.
The main electrical panel is typically located near the meter and contains the main circuit breaker, which is responsible for shutting off power to the entire building or home in the event of an overload or fault. The subpanel, on the other hand, is usually located in a remote location, such as a garage or basement, and is connected to the main panel by a feeder circuit.
One of the main advantages of installing an electric subpanel is that it allows for the addition of new circuits and appliances without overloading the existing system. This is particularly important in older homes, which may not have been designed to handle the increased power demands of modern appliances and electronics.
Another advantage of a subpanel is that it can be used to separate circuits and provide dedicated circuits for specific areas or appliances. For example, a subpanel might be used to provide power to a new kitchen or home theater, allowing the circuits in these areas to be completely separate from the rest of the building.
When installing a subpanel, it is important to ensure that the feeder circuit and subpanel are properly sized and installed to meet local electrical codes and regulations. The size of the feeder circuit will depend on the size of the subpanel and the number of circuits it will support, as well as the total electrical load of the building or home.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the subpanel is properly grounded and that all circuits are properly labeled to avoid confusion and ensure safety. Any work on electrical systems should be done by a qualified electrician to ensure the safety and proper functioning of the system.