Adding a New Circuit to the Main Panel for a Garage Panel
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I have the electrical main coming into an exterior panel, and being back-fed into a 125 AMP breaker. This then flows through the panel itself and into a sub-panel just inside the building. © By: Dave Rongey |
Adding a Breaker for a Garage Panel
Electrical Question: Can I use the main panel’s unused circuit breaker slots to install a breaker for a sub-panel?
I have the electrical main coming into an exterior panel, and being back-fed into a 125 AMP breaker. This then flows through the panel itself and into a sub-panel just inside the building. In the main panel the neutral and ground is wired to the same bus bar. The sub-panel is fed from this main panel and also has a 125 AMP breaker. My sub-panel is full but I need to pull 240V from somewhere. Can I use the main panel’s unused slots of which there are 6 knock-outs remaining?
This electrical wiring question came from Mike, a Homeowner in Orlando , Florida.
Additional Comments: It is handy to be able to actually ask an electrician something!
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Mike.
Adding a New Circuit to a Main Panel
Application: Adding a New Circuit to a Main Panel.
Skill Level: Advanced – Not recommended for homeowners, This project is best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor, or Certified Electrician.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, and appropriate Safety Gear.
Estimated Time: Depends on the personal level experience, ability to work with tools, install electrical circuit wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Electrical Safety: Identify the electrical power source to the Main Panel, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials: Electrical parts and materials for the Main Panel should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections: Installing or changing home electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes as adopted in Orlando, Florida. A permit and inspections may also be required.
Adding a New Circuit to a Main Panel for a Sub Panel
This electrical wiring project is about adding a New Circuit to a Main Panel for a Sub Panel in a Detached Garage of an Old Home.
The existing Main Panel:
Adding a New Circuit Breaker
Electrical Question Review:
Can I use the main panel’s unused circuit breaker slots to install a breaker for a sub-panel? Mike, From the photo that you have provided, there are additional spaces in this panel for additional circuit distribution, which means that and additional 2Pole 240Volt circuit breaker may be added.
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