Adding a subpanel is an excellent way to improve the electrical system. It can be used to expand the electrical connections in residential spaces such as garage, office, and more.
For this reason, you may be wondering, “How much does it cost to install a subpanel?”
Technically, the cost may range from $400 to $1,750, depending on the unit rating, labor, permit, and other factors such as replacing the wiring and moving the current subpanel.
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What Are the Factors Involved in Sub Panel Installation Cost?
For a better understanding of the electrical sub panel cost, here is a breakdown of factors that may affect it.
1. Sub panel Cost
The price of the sub panel varies, depending on its amperage ratings and brand. For example, a 100 amp sub panel might have a price range of $100 to $200, while a 150 amp will set you back $150 to $250, and a 200-amp one $250 to $350.
A lower-rating module, such as a 50 amp sub panel, may cost less than $100. However, it might limit you from adding many circuits due to the low rating.
These prices are only for the sub panel alone. The breaker for an additional circuit is another factor. In this case, $5 to $15 is the average 15 amp to 20 amp circuit breaker cost.
2. Labor Cost
If you hire a professional electrician to replace an electrical service or install a sub-panel, the cost may range from $50 to $100 per hour. However, if you decide to do it yourself, you’ll only have to pay for the tools.
3. Permit Cost
Whether you decide to DIY or hire a licensed electrician to work on sub panel installation, local permits are required. These permits are important for proper documentation and may cost $50 to $300.
Don’t skip this requirement to save money, because you’ll likely end up with a fine.
4. New Wiring
Aside from the aforementioned costs, if you need to replace an old electrical connection or circuits, you might need to pay extra fees. They may range from $600 to $2,200 for installing new wiring.
If you’re relocating a sub panel, such as moving it out of one room and putting it in detached garage or any part of the house, you’ll probably have to incur this cost.
Things to Consider When Adding a Sub Panel
You should consider these important factors before adding a sub panel to your home.
1. Choose the Largest Sub Panel
When adding a sub panel, always select the highest rating that can possibly be used with your main panel. This will keep you prepared in the future if you add another circuit.
2. Add Main Switch
Most sub panels do not require a main breaker switch as long as they have fewer than six circuits. This is possible if both the sub panel and the main one are in the same room, whether in garage or elsewhere.
However, if you plan to install the sub panel in a separate building with more than six circuits, you might need to consider adding the main switch.
3. Upgrade Your Main Panel
Aside from the cost of adding a second breaker box, you might also need to consider the rating of your main panel.
If you only have a 60 amp or 100 amp main panel, and your home frequently exceeds the amperage it can provide, it’s probably better to upgrade the mains to 150 amp to 200 amps rather than adding a sub panel.
In this case, the cost to upgrade electrical panel to 200 amps is $800 to $1150.
FAQs
Do I Need an Electrician to Install a Subpanel?
The answer to this question is it all depends on you. Calling a professional might be the best option if you don’t have any electrical experience. But if you have enough experience and comfort level, you can start your DIY installation of the subpanel.
Can I Install a Subpanel Myself?
Electrical subpanel installation is an easy job that anyone can do as long as they have enough knowledge of home electricals.
However, some cities in the United States prohibit DIY work, especially if the work is associated with the main panel. As a result, it is good to consult your local inspector too determine if you are allowed to install a subpanel.
How Long Does it Take to Install a Subpanel?
Subpanel installation may last 4 to 8 hours. This timeline may increase if you need to attach or install multiple subpanel wiring for various circuits.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Fuse Box?
The cost to replace a fuse box in a house with a breaker panel might range from $1,100 to $4,000, depending on the panel capacity you need. Though it costs you a lot at first, this might be very beneficial in terms of safety.
Circuit breakers will allow you to use high-powered devices that require a 220v power circuit. They also save you a lot of money in the long run since circuit breakers are highly reusable.
Related: 6 Simple Steps to Change a Fuse Box to a Breaker Box
Conclusion
Although it can be advantageous in various ways, a sub panel is not required in all residential homes.
You can use the cost guide above to determine how much does it cost to install a subpanel so that you are aware and prepared when the time comes.
Also, keep in mind that there are contractors who provide electrical services. The majority of them will give you a quote, so there’s no need to fumble with an electrical panel cost calculator.
I am Edwin Jones, in charge of designing content for Galvinpower. I aspire to use my experiences in marketing to create reliable and necessary information to help our readers. It has been fun to work with Andrew and apply his incredible knowledge to our content.