Consolidated or distributed DC panel

[vhoisington]

1977 Islander Freeport 41 center cockpit ketch, beginning the planning for a new DC system and wiring. Nothing special here but I have a question to the group.

I can replace the existing AC/DC panel with a new single panel and re run all wiring to the original location. This might be the easiest option and reuses the original location.

As I begin the planning however, I've thought of creating several different sub panels, primary (in the original location) for standard stuff, lights, frig, bilge pumps, etc. but smaller since I can then create a couple of new sub panels, external lights ( running, steaming, anchor, deck) located near the companion way for easy access and a 2nd panel near the nav station (aft stateroom) for navigation, radar, radio, ssb, etc.)

The main panel is located in a hallway, easy access but I'm thinking that by moving some of the wiring to remote locations and just running main wires form the DC main, I can reduce congestion at the main panel and put some controls in a locations that are more purpose driven and grouped together.

I'm interested in people's thoughts on this? One large panel,and central wiring or a smaller main panel and a few sub panels.

Just started the planning but would love to hear the groups thoughts

Thanks

Victor

 

[RoyS]

Sounds like a good plan to me.

 

[DougM]

I like the idea of a sub panel for at least some functions. Too many and you might forget which panel controls which functions.
I’m getting ready to install a small sub panel just for the navigation lights and the deck light.
Right now the breakers are in different places on the main. The plan is to have nav lights, anchor light, steaming light, and deck light in that one sub.

 

[B757Captain]

I'm doing distributed panels for both my AC and DC on my H40 rebuild. I still have time to plan out the panels and wiring but the only real problem so far is finding premade panels for each station with the correct amount and amp ratings of the breakers. Remember that on the DC side especially your distribution breaker/feed line must be able to handle the full load all the circuits on the receiving panel and the wiring must be sized (round trip) for this as well. I might go with the Blue Seas modular panels for this reason. They are quite a bit more, though.

I stopped being a fan of the "one big panel" after my last rewire - as I added more and more accessories the conduits became a big problem with the sheer bulk of wiring, and I wasn't totally comfortable with all those wires in such close, tight quarters.

Cheers,

Mark