Unlock Extra Power with a Sub Panel Upgrade in Los Angeles
When your main panel is filled to capacity or your project demands dedicated circuits, a sub panel upgrade in Los Angeles by farashi electric is the smart solution. Whether it’s for an EV charger circuit, workshop or ADU service, this guide will walk you through how a sub service panel upgrade complements your main service, the benefits, what to expect, considerations for sizing and installation, and helpful FAQs to reduce confusion.
What Is a Sub Panel? Why and When Do You Need One?
A sub panel—also called a main lug load center—is a smaller secondary panel connected to your main service panel via a 240‑volt feeder breaker. It doesn’t increase your home’s total amperage; it simply redistributes power to specific zones or additional circuits more conveniently and safely.
You may need a sub panel upgrade in Los Angeles when:
- Your main panel upgrade is not yet required, but you need space for extra breaker circuits.
- You’re adding a workshop, garage outlet, hot tub, ADU, or EV charger circuit.
- Circuit runs are too distant from the main panel.
Benefits of Getting a Sub Panel
- Frees up breaker slots in the main panel, allowing safer load distribution without overloading.
- Provides localized control—shops or garages can reset breakers without walking to the main panel.
- Can be more cost-effective than a full panel upgrade, especially when your main system is still sufficient.
- Enables future expansion as your 200 amp panel upgrade in Los Angeles may be needed later—but a sub service panel upgrade can bridge current gaps.
What Happens During Installation?
Step-by-Step Process:
- Load evaluation: A expert electrical services in LA from farashi electric assesses if your main service can support the sub panel’s added load.
- Panel choice & location: Typically select a 60–100 amp sub panel, installed within the home or near the service area for convenience.
- Feeder & grounding wiring: A 240‑volt double‑pole breaker feeds the sub panel—neutral and ground must be isolated per code standards (two ground rods for outdoor installations).
- Circuit management & labeling: New circuits are added, each protected and clearly marked.
- Permit & final inspection: Required for safety and code compliance in Los Angeles.
Typical duration: A standard installation is completed in one day, though complex setups may require more time.
Is a Sub Panel Right for You?
Scenario | Best Option |
Main panel is full but service capacity is adequate | Sub Panel Upgrade |
Need a dedicated area circuit (e.g. garage, workshop) | Sub Panel Upgrade |
Supporting high-power loads (EV, HVAC) exceeds main capacity | Main Panel Upgrade first |
Looking for future-proofing and increased total capacity | Consider Main + Sub Panel Upgrade |
A licensed electrician evaluates load capacity and offers the best recommendation: standalone sub panel upgrade, or paired with a main panel upgrade.
Benefits of a Panel Upgrade by farashi electric
Feature | Long-term Benefit |
Proper 200 amp upgrade | Eliminates overloads, flickering lights, and frequently tripped breakers. |
Future-proofing for EV & solar | Ensures safe addition of Level 2 charger, solar arrays, home batteries |
Compliance with code & special breakers | Includes AFCI/GFCI/surge protection as per NEC and 2025 Los Angeles electrical laws. |
Additional sub panels if needed | Enables isolated circuits for garages, workshops, or ADUs |
Licensed electricians from farashi electric | Fast, insured, and thorough service with full documentation |
FAQs
Most homes with 200 amp service can safely support a 60–100 amp sub panel. If your service is only 100 amp, it may require a main panel upgrade first
Yes—you’re required to run proper gauge feeder wires; longer distances increase material and labor costs significantly.
A sub service panel upgrade is often the most cost-effective solution versus a full service panel replacement.