When it comes to electrical wiring, it’s important to ensure that you do it the right way to avoid any potential hazards. One of the most commonly used electrical devices is a sub panel. A sub panel is used to distribute power to a particular area or location, and it’s often used when the main panel is unable to handle the load. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about GE 125 amp sub panel wiring diagram.
What is a sub panel?
A sub panel is a separate panel that is connected to the main electrical service panel. It’s used to distribute power to a particular area or location such as a garage or an outdoor area. A sub panel is usually connected to the main panel using a double pole circuit breaker.
The main panel is the primary source of power in the house, and the sub panel is a secondary source. This is important because it means that if there’s an overload in the sub panel, it won’t affect the main panel, and vice versa. This helps to reduce the risk of electrical hazards like fires and electrical shocks.
What is a GE 125 Amp sub panel?
A GE 125 Amp sub panel is a sub panel that is manufactured by General Electric. It’s designed to handle a maximum of 125 amps of electricity. This means that it’s suitable for use in residential areas where the electrical load is not too high.
It’s important to note that the GE 125 Amp sub panel should only be used as a secondary panel. It’s not designed to replace the main electrical service panel. This is because the main panel is designed to handle a much higher electrical load compared to the sub panel.
Wiring a GE 125 Amp sub panel
Wiring a GE 125 Amp sub panel is not difficult, but it’s important to follow the correct procedures to avoid any electrical hazards. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Turn off the main power
The first step in wiring a sub panel is to turn off the main power. This is important to avoid any electrical shocks. You can turn off the main power by switching off the main circuit breaker in the main electrical service panel.
Step 2: Mount the sub panel
The next step is to mount the sub panel. This involves selecting a location that’s convenient and safe. The sub panel should be mounted on a wall that’s stable and secure. You should also ensure that there’s enough space around the sub panel to allow for proper ventilation.
Step 3: Install the circuit breakers
The next step is to install the circuit breakers. Make sure that you use the correct size of circuit breakers. The GE 125 Amp sub panel is designed to use circuit breakers with a maximum rating of 125 amps.
Step 4: Connect the wires
The next step is to connect the wires. This involves running the appropriate wires from the main electrical service panel to the sub panel.
You should use wire that’s suitable for the electrical load. For the GE 125 Amp sub panel, you should use wire that’s rated for at least 125 amps.
You should also ensure that you connect the wires correctly. The black wire should be connected to the breaker, the neutral wire should be connected to the neutral bus bar, and the ground wire should be connected to the ground bus bar.
Step 5: Turn on the power
The last step is to turn on the power. This involves switching on the main circuit breaker in the main electrical service panel. You should also test the sub panel to ensure that it’s working correctly.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a GE 125 Amp sub panel as a main electrical service panel?
A: No, you should only use a GE 125 Amp sub panel as a secondary panel. It’s not designed to replace the main electrical service panel.
Q: Can I install the GE 125 Amp sub panel myself?
A: Yes, you can install the sub panel yourself if you have the necessary skills and knowledge. However, it’s always recommended to consult with a licensed electrician.
Q: What type of wire should I use with the GE 125 Amp sub panel?
A: You should use wire that’s rated for at least 125 amps.
Conclusion
Wiring a GE 125 Amp sub panel is not difficult, but it’s important to follow the correct procedures to avoid any electrical hazards. It’s always recommended to consult with a licensed electrician if you’re unsure about any aspect of sub panel wiring.
Remember to turn off the main power, mount the sub panel, install the circuit breakers, connect the wires correctly, and turn on the power. Following these steps will help ensure that your sub panel is safe and functioning correctly.
