Breaker sub panel

A breaker subpanel is a type of electrical panel that is used to distribute power to a specific area or section of a building. It is a smaller panel that is connected to a main electrical panel, and it contains circuit breakers that control the flow of electricity to individual circuits.

Here are some key characteristics of a breaker subpanel:

  1. Smaller size: Breaker subpanels are typically smaller than main electrical panels, making them easier to install and more convenient to use.
  2. Circuit breakers: Like main electrical panels, breaker subpanels contain circuit breakers that trip when a circuit is overloaded or short-circuited.
  3. Connected to a main panel: Breaker subpanels are connected to a main electrical panel, which provides the primary power source for the building.
  4. Distributes power: Breaker subpanels distribute power to specific areas or sections of a building, such as a wing of a hospital, a floor of an office building, or a residential unit.
  5. Provides flexibility: Breaker subpanels can be used to provide flexibility in electrical system design, allowing for easier additions or changes to the electrical system.
  6. Improves safety: Breaker subpanels can improve safety by providing a separate panel for each area or section of a building, reducing the risk of electrical shock or fire.

Types of breaker subpanels:

  1. Main lug subpanel: A main lug subpanel is connected to a main electrical panel and contains circuit breakers that are connected to the main panel's busbars.
  2. Main breaker subpanel: A main breaker subpanel is connected to a main electrical panel and contains a main breaker that is connected to the main panel's busbars.
  3. Feeder subpanel: A feeder subpanel is connected to a main electrical panel and contains circuit breakers that are connected to the main panel's busbars, but does not have a main breaker.

When to use a breaker subpanel:

  1. Large buildings: Breaker subpanels are often used in large buildings, such as hospitals, office buildings, or shopping centers, to distribute power to specific areas or sections.
  2. Residential units: Breaker subpanels can be used in residential units, such as apartments or condominiums, to provide separate electrical systems for each unit.
  3. Industrial applications: Breaker subpanels can be used in industrial applications, such as factories or warehouses, to provide separate electrical systems for different areas or sections.

In summary, a breaker subpanel is a smaller electrical panel that is connected to a main electrical panel and contains circuit breakers that control the flow of electricity to individual circuits. It is used to distribute power to specific areas or sections of a building, and can improve safety and provide flexibility in electrical system design.