The main electrical panel, also known as the service entrance panel, is the point at which power enters a building. While this single panel can generally serve the entire structure, there are a few reasons why you may want to consider installing subpanels. The electricians at Walker Electric share what you need to know about electric subpanels.

Main Panel vs. Subpanel

While the main panel is the electrical hub of a building, where you can switch circuits to any part of the building on and off, subpanels are way stations similar to traffic control centers. Subpanels differ in the voltage power and wiring direction of the main panels. A subpanel is not a primary energy source; it receives all its power from the main panel. It’s frequently the case that a building is more functional and safer with both central and subpanels.

Reasons to Consider Subpanels

• Space: Main panels can only handle a certain number of circuits, and an overloaded panel is an electrical fire hazard. Commercial structures, particularly multifamily dwellings, use significantly more electricity than standard residential ones, often requiring installing more circuits than a single panel can handle.
• Safety: Subpanels are a great way to create a more secure electrical system. If an electrical fire occurs in a subpanel-controlled circuit, you can shut down the subpanel and contain the problem.
• Easier Installation: In older buildings, cutting into the walls or ceiling is often necessary to change a main panel. In these instances, it’s much easier to instead install a subpanel.
• Flexibility: Main panels are usually found in the basement or a designated utility room within a building. Subpanels can be installed nearly anywhere for convenient access. This also means you can access them more quickly when necessary rather than going to the primary service panel.
• Efficiency: Dividing the electricity supply between multiple panels can save time and money. The power from a sub-panel will also reach the areas it serves faster than the main panel can.
• Separate Electricity Needs: By dividing the energy flow, you can help reduce power surges that threaten appliances and other equipment. A subpanel makes it easier to locate the circuits that power a particular area rather than using the main panel and shut down circuits that may affect a large portion of your warehouse or office.

Other Considerations to Make

1. A subpanel cannot increase the amount of power a building can accept. Subpanels are not the route to adding extra amps to your power supply as they only feed from the main panel.
2. If you find that your commercial structure needs more power, upgrading your electrical panel and adding subpanels will be necessary.

Contact Us

Walker Electric has been serving the community since 1976, and our electricians participate in annual safety training and continuing education to stay on top of industry advancements. We provide various services, including electrical design-build, installations, and industrial service work. The need for electrical service doesn’t always happen during regular business hours, so we also offer 24/7 emergency service.

Contact us today to schedule a service appointment. Walker Electric is in Lexington, KY, and is happy to serve Fayette County, Lexington, Frankfort, Richmond, Georgetown, and surrounding counties.