All homes have a main service panel.

It is essentially a satellite circuit breaker panel that has its own breakers.

What Is an Electrical Subpanel?

Residential Circuit Breaker Panel with Service Writing

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An electrical subpanel is also called a satellite circuit breaker panel.

However, you or your electrician will need tocalculate how much of a loada subpanel can handle.

The space that may need a subpanel usually has specific or heavy electric needs.

Diagram showing how a subpanel works

The Spruce / Michela Buttignol

Subpanels are added to a system for three common reasons: space, convenience, and efficiency.

It also needs a neutral wire and aground wire.

The cable used for this run is known as a “three-wire cable with ground.”

The two hot wires, called feeder wires, will provide all of the power to the subpanel.

Warning

Installing a subpanel typically requires an electrical permit from your town to avoid fines.

You may need anelectrical service upgrade.