100 Amp Subpanel Installation in Charlotte, NC
Touchstone Electric completed a code-compliant subpanel upgrade for Walsh Crawl Space & Structural Repair in Charlotte, NC. Performed by our Charlotte team based out of our Matthews branch, this project expanded available capacity for HVAC equipment and future electrical needs while improving safety and reliability.
Completion date: May 23, 2025 | Technician: Jose Rodriguez | Categories: Panels & Service Upgrades, Subpanel Installation
Project Overview
The customer needed additional capacity to support air conditioning equipment and other dedicated loads. Our solution was to install a 100 amp outdoor subpanel and provide properly sized feeders and breakers, all set up to align with current NEC and local code requirements. Permitting for the subpanel was included and managed as part of the scope.
This upgrade delivers balanced power distribution, room for expansion, and cleaner separation of new equipment circuits—helping reduce overloading and keeping essential systems running dependably.
What We Installed
- Midsized outdoor subpanel (12/24, up to 125A): Provides ample breaker spaces for current AC circuits and future additions.
- Feeder cable: Approximately 100 ft of SER 2/0 aluminum, 4‑wire service entrance cable (rated 125–150A) from the main panel to the new subpanel for a robust, dedicated feed.
- Breakers for new equipment:
- Two 30A double‑pole breakers for air conditioning condensers
- One 50A breaker for a higher‑demand appliance or future equipment
- Two 100A double‑pole breakers for feeder/subpanel protection as required
- Conduit and fittings: 1‑1/2" PVC conduit with connectors and LBs for a neat, protected installation.
The result is a clean, labeled, and expandable subpanel that supports current AC loads and leaves space for future projects.
Why Upgrade to a 100A Subpanel?
- Capacity and flexibility: Add circuits for HVAC, workshops, EV charging, or other dedicated loads without crowding the main panel.
- Improved reliability: Dedicated breakers for AC units help reduce nuisance tripping and maintain steady performance.
- Room to grow: Extra spaces (12/24) make later additions straightforward and cost‑effective.
- Code‑aligned installation: Proper 4‑wire feeder and grounding/bonding approach for safe subpanel operation.
Code Notes: AFCI Requirements
As local inspectors continue to implement NEC 2020, some existing circuits may require AFCI protection. Upgrading to AFCI can reveal preexisting wiring conditions—such as shared neutrals—that cause immediate tripping. If a shared neutral or similar issue is present, troubleshooting may be needed to isolate and correct the condition before the AFCI will hold. Our team will walk you through options if these scenarios arise.
Local Pros You Can Trust
Touchstone Electric serves homeowners and local businesses throughout the Charlotte area from our Matthews branch. For subpanel installations, panel changes, or full service upgrades, our licensed team delivers neat workmanship, clear communication, and safe, code‑aligned results.
Customer feedback: Walsh Crawl Space & Structural Repair praised our work on this project. Read and share the review here: Google review.
Need a Subpanel in Charlotte, NC?
If you’re adding HVAC equipment, planning an EV charger, or running short on breaker spaces, a 100A subpanel can be the right solution. Contact Touchstone Electric to schedule an on‑site assessment and get a tailored plan for your home or business.
