Hi all,
How’s that for a title?
Anyway, I’m trying to decide something.
I need to install another sub-panal off a sub-panal in a shop.
I’m trying to decide which way to go:
I already have a small sub-panal installed off the main sub-panal, but need more breaker space.
Should I remove the small panal and put in a larger one.
Or put in another one on the other side.
Or run a cable to another spot and put in the sub-panal further away.
Most work is last choice, least is second.
Lost wall space is remove smaller one and put in bigger, not that much work.
Seperate panal will require a #6 feed and less wiring to it or more wiring (the 12’s) and more cable.
Appearance, the replacing smaller panal with larger looks best.
Am I better off with everything in one spot.
This is all in my own personal wood shop and cost and time is mine only.
Only thing I need to buy is the larger panal (and the 12 – 15 ft of #6 if I go that route).
Doing the job any of the 3 ways is pretty easy, just trying to make up my mind.
I’ve added a whole finishing and workbench area so I need more breaker space.
Jeff
Replies
-- You generally want to minimize the connections between the power pole and the load, since connections are where you have problems.
-- You probably need to avoid developing a rat's nest of wiring. Rip out and redo vs patching here and there.
-- OTOH, having breakers near the load is a good idea with power tools, giving you an emergency shut off.
-- Minimizing wire length is important especially with motor loads. Having a panel near the load with short wires from there to the load is better than having the panel farther away (given that the feed to the panel will generally be a larger wire).