What Is a Subpanel?
A subpanel is an electrical panel that receives power from another panel and distributes it to circuits in a home or building. Its breakers control those circuits and protect their wiring. A subpanel can serve an area such as a garage or supply equipment such as a hot tub.
Quick Facts About Subpanel
- Category
- Electrical distribution equipment
- Used for
- Supplying circuits in a separate area
- Common confusion
- Added breaker space versus added service capacity
- Also called
- Electrical Subpanel, Subdistribution panel
- Often discussed with
- Hot Tub Wiring, Electrical Panel Upgrade
Key Takeaways About Subpanel
- The main panel supplies power to the subpanel.
- A feeder carries power between the panels.
- Extra breaker space doesn't create extra service capacity.
How Subpanel Works
A subpanel receives electricity through a feeder from an upstream panel. The feeder connects to metal strips called bus bars inside the subpanel. Breakers connect to those bars and send power to individual circuits. Related service: Hot Tub Wiring.
Related glossary terms: Electrical Panel, Circuit Breaker, Branch Circuit.
Each circuit carries power to its connected equipment. A breaker can shut off power to its circuit when a fault or overload occurs. The upstream panel also has a breaker that controls the feeder.
A subpanel's breaker spaces let circuits be grouped near the equipment they serve. That layout can make it easier to identify and control those circuits. The available power still depends on the feeder and the electrical service supplying it.
From the GMB Electric team
When we plan hot tub wiring, we check the equipment's electrical needs against the available panel capacity. We also look at the route between the panel and the tub. Those details help our team plan the feeder and circuit layout.
Subpanel in Practice: A Real-World Example
A homeowner wants a hot tub near a detached garage. A subpanel in the garage could supply the tub circuit, depending on the available capacity and wiring layout.
Related Services
Related Terms
Electrical Panel
An electrical panel is a metal enclosure that distributes electricity to circuits throughout a building.
Circuit Breaker
A circuit breaker is an electrical protection device that stops current when a circuit draws too much electricity.
Branch Circuit
A branch circuit is a section of electrical wiring that carries power from a circuit breaker or fuse to outlets, lights, or equipment.
Bus Bar
A bus bar is a metal conductor that carries electricity to connection points in electrical equipment.
GMB Electric
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