A subpanel is a smaller electrical panel fed from your main service panel. It provides extra breaker spaces and a convenient way to distribute power to specific areas like garages, basements, additions, or outbuildings. You might need a subpanel if your main panel is full, too far from a new project, or you are adding several new circuits for a remodel, garage workshop, or electrification upgrades.

Subpanel installation cost depends on the subpanel size, distance from the main panel, whether the garage or structure is attached or detached, and how complex the wiring route is. Costs are higher when trenching, long conduit runs, or main panel upgrades are required. Cu Solutions provides a written estimate after evaluating your existing system so you understand your subpanel installation cost and options.

Most straightforward residential subpanel installations can be completed in a day once permits are in place, though more complex jobs, such as detached garages with trenching or coordination with other trades, may take longer.

Yes. In Colorado, subpanel installation is considered electrical work that must follow the NEC and is subject to permits and inspections by the state or local jurisdiction. Cu Solutions handles permitting and inspection scheduling as part of the project so you have documentation that the work was completed to code.

In some cases, additional subpanels can be fed from another subpanel, but this depends on the original design, available capacity, and code requirements. Each panel and feeder must be correctly sized and wired, with grounding and bonding done correctly. Our electricians evaluate the entire system before recommending whether feeding from an existing subpanel is appropriate or if it is better to run directly from the main panel.

There is no fixed number of subpanels allowed purely by count. The limiting factor is the total calculated load on the 200 amp service, along with proper feeder and breaker sizing. A home might have multiple subpanels as long as the service, conductors, and overcurrent protection are adequately sized according to NEC load calculations.

A panel that was once a main panel can sometimes be repurposed as a subpanel, but it must be wired and bonded differently. The bonding screw or strap usually must be removed so neutral and ground are isolated, feeders must be sized and protected correctly, and the installation must comply with NEC and manufacturer instructions. This work should only be performed by a licensed Denver electrician familiar with panelboard requirements.

The right size depends on how you plan to use the garage. A lightly used space with basic outlets may only need a small subpanel, while a workshop with multiple tools, a 240 V circuit, and possible EV charging often benefits from a 60 amp or 100 amp subpanel. Cu Solutions reviews your equipment list and future plans and then recommends a subpanel size that fits your needs without oversizing or undersizing the system.