I get the logic behind going big, but isn’t there a point where it’s just overkill? Like, if you’re only ever planning to use the garage for parking and maybe charging a few batteries, is it really worth the extra cash for a 100A subpanel? I’ve heard people say they wish they’d gone bigger, but I’ve also seen folks with massive panels they never even half-fill. Guess it depends on how likely you are to actually pick up welding or an EV down the line... but for some of us, that’s a big “maybe.”
“is it really worth the extra cash for a 100A subpanel?”
Honestly, unless you’re planning to turn the garage into a full-blown workshop or home gym with all the bells and whistles, 100A feels like a lot. I’ve seen people spend extra and then just plug in a shop vac and a phone charger... kind of funny, really. If you’re just parking the car and charging a few things, I’d keep it simple. You can always upgrade if your needs change (though yeah, that’s more work).
Title: 100A Subpanel—Overkill or Future-Proofing?
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had to go back and upgrade a panel because someone “just needed a little power for now.” Fast forward a couple years, and suddenly there’s an EV charger, a mini-split, maybe even a welder in the mix. Running new wire or trenching again isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of fun (or cheap).
Sure, if you’re positive it’ll never be more than lights and a few outlets, 60A is fine. But if there’s even a tiny chance you’ll want to add something hefty down the road, that extra capacity can save you a headache. I’ve seen folks regret not spending the extra couple hundred bucks up front—especially when they realize their “simple” garage is now the neighborhood hangout spot with three fridges and a beer tap.
Just my two cents... sometimes it’s worth thinking bigger before you start digging.
I get the logic behind future-proofing, but honestly, 100A can be overkill for a lot of folks. Most garages I’ve worked on never come close to maxing out even a 60A subpanel. Unless you’re dead set on adding heavy loads like an EV charger or big tools, you might just be paying for capacity you’ll never use. Plus, bigger wire and breakers aren’t cheap—sometimes that “couple hundred bucks” turns into a lot more depending on the run. Just depends on your plans and budget, really.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I went through this last year and almost got talked into 100A “just in case.” Ended up running 60A and it’s been more than enough for lights, a mini-split, and my table saw. Here’s what helped me decide:
1. List out what you’ll actually use—like, really use.
2. Add up the amps (most tools don’t run at the same time).
3. Price out wire and breakers for both options.
Honestly, the cost difference was bigger than I expected once I factored in copper prices and conduit. Unless you’re planning for an EV or something major down the road, 60A is usually plenty.