Electrical Sub Panel: A Crucial Part of Your Home’s Electrical System

Electrical Sub Panel

Located in zip code 02909 in Providence, Rhode Island, B&K Electric is the go-to electrician for residents and businesses in the Warwick and greater Providence area. With over seventeen years of experience, B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated business that takes pride in providing top-notch electrical services to their community. They specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making them the perfect choice for all your electrical needs.

As a homeowner, it is crucial to have a basic understanding of your home’s electrical system. One crucial component of this system is the electrical sub panel. In this article, we will delve into the world of electrical sub panels, providing you with all the information you need to know about this important and often overlooked part of your home’s electrical system.

What is an Electrical Sub Panel?

Before we dive into the specifics of electrical sub panels, let’s first understand what they are. An electrical sub panel, also known as a subdistribution board, is a smaller electrical panel that is responsible for distributing electricity to a specific area or circuit in your home. It is connected to the main electrical panel and serves as an extension of it, providing additional power to areas that may need it.

Why Do You Need an Electrical Sub Panel?

As our lives become more reliant on electricity, our homes require more power to keep up. This is where an electrical sub panel comes in. A sub panel allows you to add more circuits and increase the electrical capacity of your home without overloading the main panel. This is especially important for older homes that may not have been designed to handle modern-day electrical needs.

Components of an Electrical Sub Panel

Just like the main electrical panel, an electrical sub panel is made up of several components that work together to ensure the safe distribution of electricity to your home. These components include the main breaker, branch circuits, and circuit breakers.

The main breaker acts as the on/off switch for the entire sub panel and is responsible for shutting off power in case of an emergency. The branch circuits are the individual circuits that connect to the main breaker and distribute power to different areas of your home. Lastly, the circuit breakers are the safety devices that protect each branch circuit by shutting off power in the event of an overload or short circuit.

Types of Electrical Sub Panels

There are two main types of electrical sub panels: main lug panels and main breaker panels. Main lug panels are more commonly used for remote locations or areas that do not require a large amount of power. They are typically smaller in size and do not have a main breaker.

On the other hand, main breaker panels are more commonly used in homes and businesses. As the name suggests, they have a main breaker that acts as the on/off switch for the entire sub panel. This type of sub panel is more suitable for areas that require a larger amount of power. When choosing between the two types, it is important to consider your electrical needs and consult with a licensed electrician.

The Importance of Proper Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation and maintenance of your electrical sub panel is crucial for the safety of your home and its occupants. It is recommended to have a licensed electrician, such as B&K Electric, install your sub panel to ensure it is done correctly and to code.

Regular maintenance of your sub panel is also important to prevent any potential hazards. This includes checking for loose wires, rust or corrosion, and keeping the panel clean and free from debris. It is also important to make sure the sub panel is not overloaded by adding too many circuits or appliances.

Signs of a Malfunctioning Electrical Sub Panel

Like any other electrical component, sub panels can malfunction. It is important to keep an eye out for any warning signs that may indicate a problem with your sub panel. These signs include flickering lights, constantly tripping breakers, and circuit overloads. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to contact a licensed electrician to assess the issue and provide a proper solution.

The Bottom Line

Electrical sub panels play a crucial role in the safe and efficient distribution of electricity to your home. From adding more circuits to increasing your home’s electrical capacity, a sub panel is an important component of your home’s electrical system. It is important to have your sub panel installed and maintained by a licensed electrician to ensure the safety of your home and its occupants.

So, if you are in need of electrical repair, panel maintenance, or installation in the Warwick area or greater Providence area, look no further than B&K Electric. Our experienced electricians are dedicated to providing top-notch service while prioritizing the safety and satisfaction of our customers. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your home’s electrical system running smoothly.

Topics: electrical sub panel, main lug panel, main breaker panel