How To Wire A 100 AMP Subpanel From A 200 AMP Main Panel?

Are you wanting to expand your home’s electrical capacity by adding a 100 amp sub panel to an existing 200 amp main panel?

**Important Note**: As an experienced electrician at Steven Gratingy Electric serving Santa Barbara, Ca who knows the hazards of working with electricity, I would like to warn you against doing this yourself. It is very important that the job is done properly and safely.

Attempting to complete the job yourself may seem like a cost-effective solution, but it is not worth risking your safety or that of others. If something were to go wrong due to negligence, I am in no position to help you out. 

Investing in qualified professional electricians for subpanel installation is well worth the expense when considering the essential safety regulations and standards required for electrical work. Don't put your well-being at risk; invest in an experienced electrician today!

However, if you wish just to understand the process, here’s a quick overview:

How to wire a 100 amp sub panel from a 200 amp main panel?

To establish a 100 amp sub panel from your 200 amp main panel, the first step is to install the breaker in the primary unit. Then, you must lay four-gauge cables connecting it to the secondary panel. After these preparations are complete, below are the steps that electrical professionals take for seamless integration:

1. Turn off the main power at the main breaker panel. This is an important safety step to prevent electrical shock while working on the panels.
2. Install the sub panel in a convenient location, such as a utility room or garage. Make sure the panel is easily accessible and securely mounted to a wall or other solid surface.
3. Connect the four-gauge cables to the main breaker in the main panel. The wires should be connected to the main breaker using a lug or terminal block.
4. Run the cables from the main panel to the sub panel, leaving enough slack in the cables to allow for easy connections.
5. Connect the cables to the sub panel by attaching the red and black wires to the main breaker terminals in the sub panel. The white and green wires should be connected to the ground bar in the sub panel.
6. Install a main breaker in the sub panel, using the same size and type as the main breaker in the main panel. This breaker will serve as the main disconnect for the sub panel, allowing you to safely turn off the power to the sub-panel when necessary.
7. Test the sub panel by turning on the main power at the main panel and then flipping the main breaker in the sub panel to the ON position. This will energize the sub panel and allow you to use the circuits in the sub panel.

It is essential to understand that electrical work can be hazardous. If you lack the confidence to do it yourself, consider employing a licensed electrician instead. Additionally, building regulations may vary depending on your location, thus, make sure to visit your local government office for further details and confirmation that all installations are in line with codes.

What size wire do I need for a 100 amp sub panel?

The size of wire you need for a 100 amp sub panel depends on several elements, such as how far the main panel is from the sub-panel and what kind of wiring is being used. Generally speaking, if it’s less than 100 feet away, then four-gauge wiring should do;

However, longer distances necessitate larger gauge wires. To guarantee safe operation, consult The National Electrical Code (NEC) or get professional advice from a licensed electrician before attempting to install your new system.

Understanding Sub Panel:

A Sub Panel is a practical way to manage various areas of your home’s electrical system efficiently. Installed in separate locations, these panels provide extra circuits and an organized distribution of electricity where it’s needed most, like near garages or kitchens that require additional power.

Connected directly to the main panel near the front entrance for easy access, installing a sub-panel ensures you have the power required for any part of your house without worrying about overloading one circuit.

When wiring a 100 amp sub panel, it is essential to ensure that all cables and connections are correct and up-to-code.

Final Thoughts:

Wiring a 100 amp sub panel from a 200 amp main panel is not a job for an amateur. Understanding the technical details and safety precautions is important to ensure the job is done correctly.

If you’re not confident in your ability to do it yourself, hire a professional electrician to provide a safe, compliant installation.

Following the steps above and adhering to local wiring codes will help you get the job done right.