How To Install a Sub Panel Start to Finish!

Benjamin Sahlstrom

6 Mar 202031:44

EducationalLearning

32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRIn this informative video, Ben guides viewers through the process of installing a 100-amp subpanel, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right size and following safety precautions. He explains the differences between main and subpanels, the necessary components, and the steps for setting up the subpanel, including running feeder wires, installing grounding bars, and making connections to the main panel. Ben also discusses the use of conduit for wire protection and shares tips for efficient panel mounting and wire management, ensuring a safe and successful electrical installation.

Takeaways

🔌 When installing a subpanel, choose the largest practical size to accommodate future needs.
🏠 For subpanels in the same building as the main panel, a separate main breaker is unnecessary unless feeding more than six circuits.
📦 The subpanel kit includes standard components like breakers, grounding bars, and screws, which facilitate the setup process.
💡 Use the appropriate gauge wire for the subpanel's amperage rating; 3-gauge copper is suitable for a 100-amp subpanel.
🌡️ Check the temperature rating of the breaker and ensure it matches the wire's temperature rating to avoid overheating.
🏳️‍🔧 Use appropriate safety measures like insulated gloves and shoes when working inside electrical panels, and always treat wires as live.
📐 Ensure proper mounting and clearance for the subpanel according to local electrical codes, allowing easy access for maintenance.
🔧 Install grounding bars separately in the subpanel to avoid bonding neutrals and grounds, which is required for subpanels but not for main panels.
🔄 Create loops in the wires before connecting them to breakers for flexibility and ease of future modifications.
🏠 For connections above the subpanel, use conduit to protect the wires, especially if local codes require it.
🔋 Label wires at the panel entrance to keep track of their destinations and simplify future troubleshooting.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?
-The main purpose of the video is to provide a detailed guide on how to install a 100 amp subpanel, including the necessary components, safety precautions, and step-by-step instructions.
Why is it recommended to add the largest panel that is practical to a door?
-Adding the largest panel that is practical ensures that the subpanel can accommodate future needs, as it is common to require more circuits than initially anticipated.
What type of panel is being installed in the video?
-A main lug panel is being installed, which does not have a separate main breaker.
When is a main breaker required for a subpanel?
-A main breaker is required for a subpanel if it is in a separate building or if there are more than six circuits inside the panel.
What is the purpose of grounding bars in a subpanel?
-Grounding bars are used to separate the neutrals and grounds in a subpanel, providing a safe and organized way to connect ground wires.
What type of wire is used to connect the main panel to the subpanel?
-Three gauge copper wire is used for the feeder wire, which is adequate for running 100 amps.
How is the neutral wire identified in the subpanel?
-The neutral wire is identified by marking it with white electrical tape, as per the National Electrical Code for conductors larger than six gauge.
What is the importance of the temperature rating on the breaker and panel?
-The temperature rating indicates the size of the wires that can be used with the breaker and panel. It is important to ensure that the rating matches the wires to avoid overheating and maintain safety.
What type of conduit is used to connect the two panels?
-One and a half inch PVC conduit is used to connect the two panels.
What safety measures are taken when working inside a panel?
-Safety measures include wearing insulated gloves, rubber-soled shoes, safety glasses, and turning off the power to the house whenever possible when working inside a panel.
How are the main conductors brought into the subpanel?
-The main conductors, including the six gauge ground wire and the three gauge feeder wire, are pulled into the subpanel from the main panel through the conduit and appropriately connected to the grounding bars and breaker.

Outlines

00:00

🔧 Introduction to Subpanel Installation

The video begins with Ben introducing himself and explaining the task at hand - installing a 100 amp subpanel. He emphasizes the importance of choosing a larger subpanel than initially anticipated to accommodate future needs. Ben discusses the concept of main lug panels and the necessity of a main breaker depending on whether the subpanel is in the same or a separate building. He also explains the accessories included with the subpanel kit, such as standard 20 amp breakers, grounding bars, and installation screws. The video sets the stage for a detailed walkthrough of the subpanel installation process.

05:02

📐 Planning and Mounting the Subpanel

In this paragraph, Ben discusses the planning and mounting process for the subpanel. He outlines the required clearances for the panel location, emphasizing the need for a three-feet clearance in front and width to ensure safety. He also mentions the height restrictions for breakers and provides guidance on mounting the panel. Ben proceeds to demonstrate the process of connecting the conduit between the main and subpanels, including the use of PVC conduit and fittings. He stresses the importance of safety measures, such as turning off the power and wearing appropriate safety gear when working inside the panel.

10:03

🔩 Installing Ground Bars and Bonding

Ben moves on to the installation of ground bars in the subpanel, explaining the process and the importance of separating grounds and neutrals in the subpanel setup. He demonstrates how to mount the ground bars and connect them to the panel casing. Ben also discusses the bonding screw, which is not required in a subpanel setup due to the need for separation of grounds and neutrals. He emphasizes the difference between a main panel and a subpanel in terms of bonding and grounding.

15:05

💡 Pulling Wires and Subpanel Connections

This paragraph focuses on the process of pulling wires from the main panel to the subpanel. Ben explains the choice of wire gauge for the feeder wire and ground wire, and demonstrates how to strip and connect the wires to the appropriate terminals within the subpanel. He also discusses the use of a neutral lug kit for connecting the neutral wire to the main panel. The paragraph highlights the importance of following safety protocols and ensuring accurate connections for the proper functioning of the subpanel.

20:08

🏠 Finishing Touches and Future Considerations

Ben concludes the installation process by discussing the conduit runs for the circuits leading out of the subpanel and the importance of using appropriate conduit sizes and bushings for protection. He demonstrates how to prepare and install the conduit for the circuits. Ben also emphasizes the value of labeling wires for future reference and ease of maintenance. He wraps up the video by inviting viewers to share their tips and experiences with subpanel installation and encourages continued learning through engagement in the comments section and watching related electrical videos.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡100 amp subpanel

A 100 amp subpanel is an electrical distribution panel that can handle a maximum current of 100 amperes. It is being installed in the video to expand the electrical capacity of the system. The subpanel is fed from the main panel and is intended to supply power to additional circuits, such as those for a basement renovation project mentioned in the script.

💡main lug panel

A main lug panel is a type of electrical panel that does not have a separate main breaker. Instead, it has lugs where the main power supply wires are connected directly. This type of panel is suitable for subpanels, especially when installed in the same building as the main panel, as it is not required to have a main breaker if the total number of circuits does not exceed six.

💡grounding bars

Grounding bars are metal strips installed within an electrical panel that provide a point of connection for grounding wires. They ensure the safety of the electrical system by directing any fault currents safely to the ground, preventing potential electrical shocks or fires. In the context of the video, grounding bars are included in the subpanel kit and are essential for separating neutral and ground wires in the subpanel setup.

💡feeder wire

Feeder wire refers to the electrical cable that carries electricity from the main panel to the subpanel. It is typically composed of three wires: a hot wire, a neutral wire, and a ground wire. The size or gauge of the feeder wire must be appropriate for the maximum current the subpanel is designed to handle. In the video, a 3-gauge copper wire is used as the feeder wire for the 100 amp subpanel.

💡breaker

A breaker, or circuit breaker, is a safety device that protects an electrical circuit from damage caused by excess current from an overload or short circuit. The breaker interrupts the flow of electricity when it detects a problem, preventing potential damage or fire. In the context of the video, the breaker is used to feed the main load panel and is selected based on the panel's rating and temperature settings.

💡PVC conduit

PVC conduit is a type of electrical raceway made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) used to protect and route electrical wires. It is durable, resistant to moisture and corrosion, and is easy to install. In the video, PVC conduit is used to connect the main panel to the subpanel, providing a safe and organized path for the feeder wires.

💡bonding screw

A bonding screw is used in electrical panels to connect the neutral and ground systems together. In a main panel, the bonding screw is typically installed to bond the neutral and ground bars. However, in a subpanel, the bonding screw must be removed to ensure that the neutral and ground systems are separated, as required by electrical codes.

💡neutral lug kit

A neutral lug kit is a set of components used to install a neutral wire into an electrical panel. It includes a lug and other necessary hardware for making the connection. The kit is used when the panel does not have a pre-installed neutral bar, or when additional neutral connections are required.

💡arc fault breaker

An arc fault breaker is a type of circuit breaker designed to detect harmful electrical arcs that can occur in electrical wiring and cause fires. It provides additional protection by interrupting the circuit when an arc fault is detected. In residential electrical systems, these breakers are commonly used in bedrooms and living areas to enhance safety.

💡panel mounting

Panel mounting refers to the process of securing an electrical panel to a wall or other surface. Proper mounting is critical for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the electrical system. It involves adhering to clearance requirements, such as maintaining a certain distance in front of and to the sides of the panel for safe access.

💡electrical code

The electrical code is a set of regulations and standards that govern the safe installation, inspection, and maintenance of electrical systems in buildings. It includes guidelines for wire sizes, types of connections, and panel configurations to ensure safety and prevent electrical hazards.

Highlights

Installing a 100 amp subpanel fed from the main panel.

The importance of adding the largest panel practical to a door.

Main lug panel characteristics and its use case.

The necessity of having a main breaker in a separate building.

Feeding a 100 amp panel from a 60 amp breaker.

Accessories included with the subpanel kit.

Using 3 gauge copper wire for 100 amps.

Marking the neutral wire with white electrical tape.

Using 1.5 inch PVC conduit to connect the two panels.

Panel mounting clearances and safety considerations.

Working with the main panel and safety measures.

Installing ground bars in the subpanel.

Connecting the main grounding wire and subpanel grounding setup.

Pulling wire into the subpanel from the main panel.

Using a neutral lug kit for connecting to the main panel's neutral bus.

Wiring the first circuit breaker in the subpanel.

Labeling wires for easy identification and tracking.

Transcripts

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Electrical Installation DIY Subpanel Home Wiring Safety Precautions Panel Components Circuit Breakers Conduit Connection Grounding & Bonding Electrical Codes Home Improvement