Running a Panel Wire the Easy Way
"Make sure you read this before getting a panel wire!"
What’s the difference between a panel wire and any other type of wire? Well, that’s a trick question because there’s nothing, really, as long as you have the right size. If you don’t know what size you need (or at least have some sort of idea) then you probably shouldn’t be attempting this sort of thing. If you don’t get hurt when you mess up, you will probably do it wrong (even if you think you can follow the circuit diagram) and then you’ll break things and have to spend more money than you would have on an electrician in the first place. There are so many different things to know about load centers and panel boards that I can only briefly go over them.
First, you should know that panel boards are larger than load centers. Aside from that, they are extremely similar and can almost be interchanged if you know what you’re doing. They both come in different configurations and can have spaces for circuit breakers. They come in 8 – 16 spaces all the way past 40 – 80 spaces. The reason for the double numbering is the fact that there are two rows.
Then, you need to consider whether you need one that is for indoor or outdoor use. Of course, they also have several types that are useful for areas where oil might drip or there is a lot of dust. They even make panels that are explosion proof if you’re working in that type of setting. Normally, you’ll just need to worry about whether it’s going to be inside or outside. Then, think of the knockouts. These are special holes that can be punched out of the metal for the conduit to come through (or simply the wires themselves).
There are several other types, such as subpanels, meter mains, management types, grid, hog, and generator types. There are service entrances and solar panels too, though the latter is not really in the same category as the other types. Installation is not easy if you’re not trained, so please hire a professional electrician.