A subpanel has separate bus bars for neutral and ground wires and typically has no main breaker. It may not be labeled “subpanel.” Instead, it might be labeled “lugs only.” Additionally, it might be a different brand than the main panel. Have the inspector approve the subpanel, the feeder cable, and the feeder breaker before you start installing a subpanel. Safety is most important when installing anything with wires or electrical work. When dealing with electrical projects, shut off the power first. Before you begin installing a subpanel, shut off the main breaker in the service panel. Editor’s tip: Professional electricians take pride in the way they run wires into a service panel or subpanel. In a well-wired panel, wires route in neat paths around the perimeter, making it easy to tell which wire goes to which breaker. More important, orderly wires are less likely to brush against hot bus bars, which would create a serious fire hazard.
