Electric Sub Panel: A Guide to Your Home’s Electrical Hub

Electric Sub Panel

As a homeowner in North Providence, Rhode Island, it’s essential to have a safe and efficient electrical system in your home. And one crucial component of that system is the electric sub panel. This article will serve as a comprehensive guide to help you understand what an electric sub panel is, why it’s important, and when you may need to consider installing or upgrading one in your home.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, has been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. With a focus on community and excellent customer service, B&K Electric specializes in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. So, let us take you through the ins and outs of the electric sub panel, and why you should make B&K Electric your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

What is an Electric Sub Panel?

The electric sub panel, also known as a sub distribution board, is a secondary panel that is connected to the main service panel. It’s responsible for distributing power to different areas or rooms in your home. Think of it as a hub that manages and controls the electricity flow in various parts of your house.

Why it’s Important to Have an Electric Sub Panel

As a homeowner, you may question the need for an additional panel when you already have a main service panel. The main reason for having an electric sub panel is to accommodate new circuits to specific areas or rooms in your home. The main service panel has a limited number of slots for circuit breakers, and once they are all filled, you will need to install a sub panel to add more circuits.

In addition, an electric sub panel allows you to have more control over the distribution of power in your home. For example, if you’re working on a renovation project in one part of your house, you can shut off the power to that area without affecting the rest of the house. This makes it a more efficient and convenient option for managing your electricity.

When to Consider Installing or Upgrading an Electric Sub Panel

There are several instances when installing or upgrading an electric sub panel may be necessary. First, if you’re adding new appliances or rooms to your home, you may need to increase the number of circuits to accommodate the increased power demand. In this case, installing a sub panel will be necessary to avoid overloading your main service panel.

Similarly, if you frequently experience power outages or flickering lights, it could be a sign that your main panel is overburdened and needs a sub panel for additional support. This will ensure that each circuit has adequate power supply, reducing the risk of potential electrical hazards such as fires.

Another reason to consider installing or upgrading your electric sub panel is if your home is over 20 years old. Older homes may have outdated electrical systems that are not equipped to handle the electricity demands of modern appliances and technology. In this case, upgrading your sub panel will not only improve your home’s safety but also increase its value.

Essential Components of an Electric Sub Panel

To fully understand your home’s electrical system, it’s essential to know the different components of an electric sub panel and their functions.

1. Circuit Breakers: These are the switches that control the flow of electricity to each circuit. If an overload or short circuit occurs, the circuit breaker will trip, preventing further damage.

2. Main Breaker: This is the largest circuit breaker that controls the flow of electricity to the sub panel. It’s also the first place you should go to shut off the power during an emergency.

3. Bus Bars: These are the vertical metal bars that run down the center of the sub panel and are used to connect the circuit breakers.

4. Grounding Bar: This is a metal bar used to connect all the grounding wires from the various circuits.

5. Neutral Bar: Similar to the grounding bar, this bar connects all the neutral wires from the different circuits.

The Installation Process

Installing an electric sub panel is not a DIY project. It’s crucial to hire a licensed and experienced electrician, like those at B&K Electric, to ensure proper installation and avoid potential safety hazards. Here’s a general overview of the installation process.

1. Determine the Load: The first step is to determine the total electrical load that the sub panel will need to handle. This will determine the size and amperage rating of the sub panel.

2. Choose the Location: The sub panel should be installed in a location that is easily accessible and has enough space for the breakers and wires. It should also be away from any water sources to avoid the risk of electrocution.

3. Mounting the Panel: The sub panel should be mounted on a sturdy surface, such as a wall, using the provided screws.

4. Run Wires: The electrician will run wires from the main panel to the sub panel, connecting them to the appropriate breakers.

5. Wiring the Circuits: The electrician will then wire each circuit to the corresponding breaker and connect the neutral and ground wires to their respective bars.

6. Final Connections: After all the circuits have been wired, the electrician will make the final connections to the main panel, ensuring proper grounding and polarity.

Concluding perspectives

The electric sub panel may seem like a complicated component of your home’s electrical system, but with the help of a licensed and experienced electrician, it can be easily installed or upgraded to ensure the safety and efficiency of your home’s electricity.

As a homeowner, it’s essential to stay on top of your home’s electrical needs and address any potential issues promptly. So, if you live in the Warwick area or the greater Providence area and need an electrician you can trust, make B&K Electric your go-to choice for any electrical repair, panel maintenance or installation. Contact us today and let us take care of all your electrical needs.

Topics:

Electric Sub Panel,

Panel Maintenance,

Electrical Repair