Electrical Sub Panel: A Guide to Understanding, Maintaining, and Installing

Electrical Sub Panel

As a homeowner in East Providence, Rhode Island, it is important to have a basic understanding of your electrical system and its components. One key component of an electrical system is the sub panel, also known as a distribution board or breaker box. While the main electrical panel is responsible for receiving power from the utility company and distributing it to different areas of your home, the sub panel serves as a secondary distribution center for electricity, typically located in a specific area of the house.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, we have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us your go-to electrician for your home or business in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

In this article, we will delve into the world of sub panels, providing a comprehensive guide on what they are, how they work, and the importance of proper maintenance and installation.

Understanding Sub Panels

Sub panels are essentially smaller versions of the main electrical panel and are usually located in areas where additional power is needed, such as a garage, workshop, or addition to the house. They typically have a main breaker and individual circuit breakers, just like the main panel, but with a lower amperage capacity. This allows for the distribution of electricity to specific areas of the house, without overloading the main panel.

Sub panels are also commonly used in larger residential properties or commercial buildings, where multiple sub panels are used to distribute power to different areas of the property.

How Sub Panels Work

The main breaker in a sub panel is connected to the main electrical panel through a feeder wire, usually through a dedicated circuit. This feeder wire supplies power to the sub panel, and from there, individual circuit breakers distribute the electricity to their respective areas. This allows for a more organized and efficient distribution of power throughout the house, as well as providing the option to shut off power to certain areas in case of an emergency or maintenance.

Proper Maintenance of Sub Panels

Just like any other electrical component in your home, sub panels also require regular maintenance to ensure their proper functioning and safety. It is recommended to have a licensed electrician inspect your sub panel every 3-5 years to check for any signs of wear and tear, loose connections, or potential hazards.

Additionally, if you notice any flickering lights, tripped breakers, or burn marks around the panel, it is crucial to address these issues immediately with a professional electrician. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to electrical fires or other safety hazards.

Installing a Sub Panel

Proper installation of a sub panel is crucial to the safety and functionality of your electrical system. It is recommended to always hire a licensed electrician for this task, as they have the expertise and knowledge to ensure a safe and efficient installation.

When installing a sub panel, the electrician will first determine the appropriate location for the panel and install it onto the wall. They will then run the feeder wire from the main panel and connect it to the sub panel’s main breaker, following all proper electrical codes and regulations.

Next, the electrician will install the individual circuit breakers and connect the wiring for each designated area. This process may differ depending on the specific needs and layout of the house, so it is important to have a professional handle the installation to ensure proper and safe wiring.

Lastly

In summary, sub panels serve as a crucial component of a home’s electrical system, providing a secondary distribution center for power throughout the house. It is important for homeowners to have a basic understanding of their sub panel and ensure regular maintenance and proper installation for the overall safety and functionality of their electrical system.

At B&K Electric, we are committed to providing top-notch electrical services to the residents of East Providence and surrounding areas. With our extensive experience and dedication to customer service, you can trust us to handle all your sub panel needs and any other electrical services.

Topics:

Electrical Sub Panel,

Maintenance,

Installation