Commercial electrical panels are essential for redirecting power flow from the main service entrance to various circuit branches and loads. These panels house protective and control devices, such as breakers and disconnects, ensuring efficient operation. Due to their high-power handling capability, proper installation and maintenance of commercial panels are crucial for guaranteeing the safety of your business and personnel. In this article, we will explore the two main types of commercial electrical panels, considerations when choosing the right panel, and valuable installation tips to assist you with your commercial panel installation projects.

Types of Commercial Electrical Panels: Single-Phase vs. Three-Phase

In the world of commercial electrical systems, there are two main types of electrical panels: single-phase and three-phase electrical panels.

Single-phase panels are primarily designed for residential applications where the power demand is relatively low. They are also suitable for small businesses and large commercial settings that require specialized loads supplied by single-phase, dedicated circuits. In contrast, three-phase panels are essential for most commercial applications with high power demands. These panels are commonly found in large buildings, factories, and commercial centers. In three-phase systems, high voltages (common in the US are: 277V/480V or 120V/208V) are present, necessitating large commercial-grade breakers to protect against the substantial currents typical of three-phase circuits.

While single-phase panels are generally less expensive and easier to install than three-phase electrical panels, they come with significant limitations due to their lower power capacity. Therefore, in commercial settings with substantial power demands, opting for three-phase electrical panels is often unavoidable.

What to consider when choosing a commercial electrical panel?

In a new commercial construction or remodeling, power demand often increases due to added electrical loads, making it essential to replace or upgrade outdated electrical panels. Project owners may also choose to future-proof their electrical systems by upgrading panels during construction, supporting potential power increases and preventing costly rework in the future.

When selecting the right electrical panel, consider the following important questions:

• What type of power will the panel handle? Determine if a single-phase or three-phase panel is needed. Understanding the differences between these types is crucial for making an informed choice.
• What is the system voltage, and what current rating is required? This information is vital for the correct electrical and physical sizing of the panel. Any necessary upsizing in ampacity or available circuit slots should be considered at this stage.
• Where will the panel be installed? Knowing if the installation is indoors or outdoors will influence the selection of the appropriate panel, as each location has specific requirements.
• What type of electrical system is present? Is it a Delta or WYE system? This distinction affects the compatibility of the panel.
• What are the necessary AIC and SCCR ratings? Ampere Interrupting Capacity (AIC) and Short-circuit Current Rating (SCCR) define the panel’s capacity for protection against electrical faults and short circuits.

There are many technical considerations involved in choosing and installing a commercial electrical panel. Hiring a licensed and professional electrician is highly recommended to ensure your project meets all safety and regulatory standards.

Do you need to upgrade your commercial electrical panel?

There are several reasons for upgrading your commercial electrical panel:

• Business growth: a progressive and evolving business often grows in terms of spaces, equipment, and electrical loads. To maintain high safety standards and remain up to the electrical codes, often the business owners should consider upgrading their electrical panels.
• Aged electrical panel: combined with the point above, an aged electrical panel loaded with additional increasing demands from the business can create a safety hazard for your property. The only way to address this issue is by upgrading your panel with a new one.
• Frequent tripping of breakers: if the breakers in your panel trip often with no clear signs of fault or short circuit, there may be an issue with your panel. Often this issue is related to the panel being overloaded and hence needing an upgrade.

Do you need a licensed electrician for your commercial panel upgrade?

At Amplifi Electric, we specialize in troubleshooting and upgrading commercial electrical panels in a cost-efficient and timely manner. Our expertise in commercial electrical work allows us to:

• Size and select the right commercial electrical panel tailored to your business needs
• Prepare and apply for all necessary local permits and approvals before commencing the upgrade project
• Choose and utilize the highest quality materials for commercial and industrial electrical setups
• Ensure professional installation of your commercial panel that meets all codre quirements.
• Install new or upgraded power supplies or meters
• Conduct thorough inspections of existing wiring to ensure compliance with electrical codes
• Assess the condition of your wiring and carry out any necessary repairs or replacements to maintain the safety of your electrical system
  

Our dedicated team at Amplifi Electric is ready to assist you with any questions about this critical component of your business’s electrical infrastructure.

Please Contact us today, and let us help you with all your electrical needs!