At GEN3 Electric & HVAC, we’re proud to help homeowners in Philadelphia make their homes safer, more functional, and future ready. Recently, we worked with a repeat customer and Maintenance Plan member on a detached garage subpanel installation, a project designed to support EV charging, power tools, and everyday convenience.
This project wasn’t just about adding outlets, it was about creating a future-proof solution for EV charging, power tools, and everyday convenience.
Cost & Timeline
Customer Type: Repeat customer, Maintenance Plan member
- Technicians: Prince & Shane (Lead Electricians), Diego (Assistant)
- Timeline: 2-day project
- Project Investment: $6,000 – $12,000
Additional Repair: Replaced failing 45/5μF Dual Run Capacitor in HVAC system
Why This Garage Needed an Electrical Upgrade
The homeowner initially requested power to their detached garage for general use and EV charging. Their main panel, however, was already filled, and the existing underground feed was outdated. On top of that, the home’s grounding system didn’t meet current 200-amp requirements, and surge protection was missing which leaves appliances and electronics vulnerable.
This is a common issue in Philadelphia’s older homes. Many panels weren’t designed with today’s power needs in mind, especially with EV chargers, power-hungry tools, and modern electronics.
Our Solution: Full 100-Amp Subpanel Installation
GEN3 provided a full Garage Complete Power Package, designed to deliver safe, reliable power now and meet the homeowner’s future needs.
1. Main Panel Upgrades & Safety
- Installed properly rated twin circuit breakers to free up space in the main panel.
- Addressed grounding deficiencies to prepare for inspection.
- Recommended whole-home surge protection to safeguard electronics and appliances.
2. Running the New Feeder Line
- Deactivated the old underground circuit to the garage.
- Ran a new 90-amp feeder cable (SER) through the basement to a large junction box.
- Transitioned to THWN copper conductors in underground PVC conduit, trenching 18–24 inches below grade for ~100 feet.
- All conduit entries were sealed and weatherproofed to meet code and protect against water and pests.
3. Installing the Garage Subpanel
- Mounted a 20-space, 100-amp breaker panel inside the garage.
- Installed a supplemental ground rod for proper grounding.
- Wired multiple dedicated 20-amp circuits, ensuring flexibility for EV charging, tools, and general usage.
4. Complete Garage Rewiring
The existing garage wiring was removed and replaced with new, code-compliant wiring that included:
Overhead lighting (switch-controlled ceiling light + loft pull-chain light).
Five GFCI outlets for indoor and outdoor use, including dedicated spots for EV charging, garage door opener, workbench, and general outlets.
Outlets and circuits designed to support both standard use and heavy equipment safely.
Benefits of a Garage Subpanel for EV Charging & Tools
Many homeowners ask why they need a subpanel when they just want “a few outlets in the garage.” Here’s why:
- Capacity:
- 20-amp circuit = ~2,400 watts
- 60-amp subpanel = ~14,400 watts
- 100-amp subpanel = ~24,000 watts
- Flexibility: A subpanel acts like a “mini main panel” in the garage, allowing multiple breakers and local shut-off control.
- Supports Heavy Loads: Perfect for EV chargers, welders, compressors, or mini-split heating and cooling systems.
- Future-Proofing: As electrical needs grow, you won’t have to tear it all out and start again.
In short, a detached garage subpanel installation provides the capacity to safely support EV chargers, welders, compressors, and more.
Added Customer Value
Because this customer is part of the GEN3 Maintenance Plan, they received:
- 10% off suggested repairs found during inspection
- 10% off future installations (up to $500 annually)
- Priority scheduling and peace of mind with ongoing service
On top of that, GEN3’s residential-grade electrical panels come with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty, ensuring long-term safety and reliability.
This detached garage subpanel installation ensures the garage is a fully powered extension of the home, built to handle future electrical demands.
Permit & Inspection Process
GEN3 handled the entire permitting and inspection process with the City of Philadelphia, including third-party underwriting and coordination with United Inspection Agency. This ensures every project meets code and passes inspection without hassle for the homeowner.
Why Choose GEN3 for Electrical Upgrades in Philadelphia
Our technicians Prince, Shane, and Diego worked efficiently to complete the trenching, conduit installation, and rewiring in just two days, while maintaining the highest safety and code standards.
We’re more than electricians; we’re partners in helping you modernize your home. From explaining estimates in detail to offering multiple options for budget and long-term planning, GEN3 ensures homeowners feel confident about every project decision.
Ready to Power Up Your Garage?
Whether you need an EV charger, a full subpanel upgrade, or simply more outlets, GEN3 Electric & HVAC is here to help. We’ll design a safe, code-compliant solution that meets your needs today and prepares you for tomorrow.
Contact GEN3 today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can transform your garage into a fully powered extension of your home!
