Can you put a sub panel in attic?

The downside of installing a subpanel in the attic is accessibility. Presuming it’s accessible enough to meet code requirements, it seems like a pain to have to get up into the attic any time you need to access it. Not a reason not to do it… just a consideration. That is a reason not to do it.

Does a residential sub panel need main breaker?

A main breaker on a sub-panel is not necessary because this is in the same building (if you are in a different building then NEC 225.31, 225.32, 225.33 apply). That said, having a main breaker in the sub-panel is also acceptable. For whatever reason (economy of scale, I guess) “main” panels are often sold cheaper.

What size breaker do I need for a sub panel?

Based on your question, since you will be having a subpanel, you want the breaker feeding the subpanel to be sized for the subpanel or slightly smaller. So if you purchase and install a 200A subpanel, then the breaker should be 200A. If you use a 125A subpanel, then use a 125A breaker.

Does a 60 amp sub panel need a main breaker?

Your subpanel does not need a main breaker if it’s in the same building. If it is in an outbuilding, you need a disconnect switch, and the breaker will suffice but its size doen’t matter. So there is no earthly reason to change out that subpanel main breaker.

How do you install an electrical sub panel?

Install the cable clamp into the knockout hole and attach it to the sub panel using the locking nut. Pull the feeder wire into the sub panel. Be sure to leave about 2′ of extra cable on each end after the feeder cable enters both the sub panel and the main electrical panel.

When to install a circuit breaker sub panel?

Install a electrical circuit breaker sub panel when your main circuit panel is full and you need to add more circuits. Sub panels can be installed both next to the main electrical panel or close to the area you are bringing power to such as when finishing a basement, adding an addition to your home or you simply need more power in the garage.

Can a sub panel be grounded in a garage?

The sub-panel can be grounded at the garage. You will have to install a 6 foot ground bar outside the garage and run a ground wire from the sub-panel box to the ground rod. The ground wire does not have to be in a conduit. Remember, you’re working with electricity, so follow good safety procedures.

What kind of sub panel do I need for outbuilding?

The most common outbuilding sub panels are 60-amp. Installing a main breaker into the sub panel will save you the headache of having to go to the main panel box to shut the power off.

How to wire a sub panel ask the electrician?

More about Wiring a Sub Panel Grounds and Neutrals in Electrical Panel How to Wire Grounds and Neutrals in Sub Panels – all the neutrals and ground wire and terminal bars must be separated from each other, and your sub feed should be a 4-wire cable that has a separated insulated neutral wire and a separate ground wire.

What kind of wire do I need to install a subpanel?

You may need to remove a knockout slug to insert the wires into the main panel. There should be a black wire, red wire, white wire, and bare metal wire. If you’re installing a subpanel in a separate room from the main panel, use a longer feeder cable to reach it.

How do you connect a sub panel to a main panel?

Insert the “hot” conductor connections (“Line 1” and “Line 2” or black, red or blue) into the terminal openings of the new double pole circuit breaker in the main panel. Route and secure the sub panel feeder cable into the sub panel. Connect the ground wire, which is bare, to the grounding bar or buss in the sub panel.

Where to place a subpanel in a circuit breaker?

If you need more circuits to power your electrical devices, install a subpanel adjacent to your main circuit breaker. This will allow you to extend your circuitry if you need to use more, while also allowing you to shut off power to the subpanel when you aren’t using it. Place the subpanel about 1 foot (0.30 m) away from your main panel.