Subpanel selection

[Eric29]

I want to add a subpanel to my 100 amp main panel because I'm running out of space. I was thinking 60 amps, 8 slots. I can just figure this out myself if I have to, but I thought I'd ask if any of the folks who install panels have any preferences for certain kinds or brands of subpanels. I'm going to put AFCI breakers in the panel and the AFCI breakers I've seen for panels are kind of large and take up a lot of space. I'd like some room to work in the panel I use.

The subpanel will be next to the main panel.

Thanks folks. Any suggestions appreciated.

 

[terabitdan]

Why limit yourself to just 8 circuits? Getting a 20+ space panel is just a little more $$$. That way you have room to add whatever you need later.

Also, is it possible you’ll outgrow your current 100 amp service? If so, why not get a 200 amp panel that can become your main if that ever happens? So for now you feed the new panel off the existing, when you need to upgrade install the new feed into the larger panel, then feed the 100 amp panel from the new 200.

It’s easier if your main and sub panels are the same brand so you can move breakers between them, but not a requirement.

I have all Siemens copper bus, but really like the Square D plug on neutral idea, much cleaner wiring for AFCI/ GFCI breakers.


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[Fishingfoolemjak]

I prefer squareD QO... I install them all the time and they always perform. Stay away from GE, unless you want a backup welder.

 

[Eric29]

Great suggestions. Thanks a lot.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Eaton CH

 

[Norcal]

If the OP has a Siemens panel, then the subpanel should be a Siemens, anything else is a bastardized install, unless the manufacturer is out of business, such as Zinsco/Sylvania, FPE, ITE Pushmatic, & so on.

 

[Fishingfoolemjak]

If the OP has a Siemens panel, then the subpanel should be a Siemens, anything else is a bastardized install, unless the manufacturer is out of business, such as Zinsco/Sylvania, FPE, ITE Pushmatic, & so on.

I just re read the op, yes the sub should match the main when installed next to it.

 

[Eric29]

The original is a Square D Homeline, HOMC21UC. I really like the idea of the plug on neutral though. Would another Square D be appropriate?

I could pull the meter and install another panel with more spaces. I'd like to avoid that though.

 

[Lelandwelds]

Why limit yourself to just 8 circuits? Getting a 20+ space panel is just a little more $$$. That way you have room to add whatever you need later.

Also, is it possible you’ll outgrow your current 100 amp service? If so, why not get a 200 amp panel that can become your main if that ever happens? So for now you feed the new panel off the existing, when you need to upgrade install the new feed into the larger panel, then feed the 100 amp panel from the new 200.

It’s easier if your main and sub panels are the same brand so you can move breakers between them, but not a requirement.

I have all Siemens copper bus, but really like the Square D plug on neutral idea, much cleaner wiring for AFCI/ GFCI breakers.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Get same brand as existing. I would want more spaces.

 

[Eric29]

Thanks.

Get same brand as existing. I would want more spaces.

 

[dscheidt]

The original is a Square D Homeline, HOMC21UC. I really like the idea of the plug on neutral though. Would another Square D be appropriate?

I could pull the meter and install another panel with more spaces. I'd like to avoid that though.

Homeline panels made in the last three or four years are all plug on neutrals. You can use either plug on or pig tail AFCI/GFCI/dual-function breakers on them. (but only pig tail ones on the old one, of course.) If there's room for it, there's little reason not to install a bigger panel.

 

[75gmck25]

100 amp, 20 circuit sub-panels are reasonably priced and easy to find. They also give you a lot of flexibility for new circuits. You can always use a 60 amp breaker in the main panel to limit the current to the sub-panel.

Bruce