If you're planning a home addition, installing a hot tub, or simply upgrading your electrical system, you may have heard the term electrical subpanel. But what is an electrical subpanel, and why would you need one? At Bowen Electric, we’ve helped homeowners across Waco, TX, and surrounding areas make smart, safe electrical decisions. In this blog, we’ll break down what subpanels are, when you need one, and how they can help your home electrical system stay organized and up to code.
Understanding the Basics: What Is an Electrical Subpanel?
An electrical subpanel—also known as a satellite panel or sub-distribution board—is a smaller service panel that distributes electricity to a specific area of your home or property. It functions as an extension of your main service panel (also known as the main breaker panel), drawing power from it and then distributing it to individual branch circuits.
Think of it as a “mini” version of your main panel. It doesn’t replace the main panel but rather supports it, giving you extra circuit capacity and making it easier to manage power for specific areas like:
- A detached garage or workshop
- A new addition or a mother-in-law suite
- An outdoor kitchen or pool area
- A finished basement
- An electric vehicle (EV) charging station
Why Would You Need a Subpanel?
There are several reasons you might need an electrical subpanel in your home. Here are the most common situations we see in Waco homes:
1. You’re Out of Space in Your Main Panel
Modern homes require more circuits than older ones—think smart appliances, HVAC systems, and home offices. If your main panel is full, a subpanel can provide the extra space you need without requiring the replacement of the entire panel.
2. You’re Building a Home Addition
Adding a guest suite, sunroom, or garage apartment? A subpanel allows you to run power to that area with its own set of breakers, making it easier to manage and troubleshoot in the future.
3. You Want to Reduce Circuit Overload
Too many appliances or devices on a single circuit can cause the breakers to trip. A subpanel lets you redistribute the electrical load more evenly and safely.
4. You Have a Detached Building
Subpanels are commonly used to power detached structures—like workshops, barns, or pool houses—especially when they’re far from the main building.
5. You’re Installing High-Power Equipment
EV chargers, hot tubs, and other high-demand appliances often require dedicated circuits. A subpanel gives you the infrastructure to support those upgrades.
How Does a Subpanel Work?
A subpanel connects to the main panel with a feeder cable, typically containing two “hot” wires, a neutral wire, and a ground wire. Once installed, it operates like a smaller version of your main panel—distributing power to its own set of breakers for designated circuits.
Importantly, a subpanel does not increase the total amount of electricity available in your home. It simply provides more circuit slots and better distribution of your existing electrical capacity.
Subpanels and Code Compliance
All electrical installations—including subpanels—must comply with National Electrical Code (NEC) standards, as well as local ordinances. Improperly installed subpanels can pose significant safety risks, including electrical fires or power outages. Some key code requirements include:
- Proper wire sizing based on subpanel load
- Grounding and bonding done correctly
- Separation of neutral and ground in subpanel
- Correct breaker sizes and labeling
That’s why it’s essential to hire a licensed electrician—like Bowen Electric—to handle subpanel installations and upgrades safely and legally.
Pros and Cons of Installing a Subpanel
Pros:
- Adds more circuits without replacing the main panel
- Simplifies wiring for additions or detached spaces
- Easier troubleshooting and localized control
- Helps balance electrical loads
Potential Cons:
- Not a DIY project—requires a licensed electrician
- Doesn’t increase your home’s overall power capacity
- May require permits and inspections
Cost to Install an Electrical Subpanel
The cost to install a subpanel can vary based on your home’s layout, amperage needs, and distance from the main panel. In general:
- Average cost in Waco, TX: $800 – $2,000
- Typical panel size: 60 to 100 amps
- Time to complete: 1–2 days for most installs
At Bowen Electric, we provide clear, upfront pricing, and we never recommend electrical upgrades you don’t need. If a subpanel is right for your home, we’ll walk you through every step and ensure the work is up to code.
When Should You Upgrade Instead of Add a Subpanel?
In some cases, it makes more sense to upgrade your existing main panel instead of adding a subpanel, especially if:
- Your main panel is outdated (e.g., fuse boxes, Federal Pacific panels).
- Your electrical service is under 100 amps
- You’re planning a major home renovation that requires a lot more power
If you’re unsure, please don't hesitate to call us. Our licensed electricians can inspect your system and recommend the best, safest option for your needs.
Why Homeowners in Waco Trust Bowen Electric
At Bowen Electric, we’ve served the Waco community for years with honest recommendations, expert workmanship, and fast response times. We’re a local company that values safety, transparency, and doing the job right the first time.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Licensed, experienced electricians
- Fair, no-surprise pricing
- Free estimates on subpanel installations
- Fast turnaround on service calls
- Clear communication throughout every job
Whether you’re expanding your home or upgrading your electrical system, we’re here to help you make confident, informed choices.
FAQs About Electrical Subpanels
Q: Can I install a subpanel myself?
A: It’s not recommended. Subpanels involve complex code requirements and safety risks. Always hire a licensed electrician.
Q: Do subpanels need permits?
A: Yes. Electrical upgrades typically require permits and inspections to ensure everything is done to code.
Q: How many subpanels can I have?
A: There’s no strict limit, but your main panel and service capacity must support the additional load. We can help assess this.
Q: Will a subpanel increase my home's resale value?
A: In many cases, yes—especially if it supports an addition, EV charging station, or other modern upgrade.
Q: What size subpanel do I need?
A: It depends on the expected electrical load. 60-amp and 100-amp subpanels are the most common. We can help you size it correctly.
