What is a distribution panel remote from the service disconnect commonly called?

A distribution panel that is remote from the service disconnect is commonly referred to as a sub-panel. This is typically used to extend electrical distribution to different areas of a building, allowing for multiple circuits to be fed from the main panel while maintaining separation from the primary service disconnect. The sub-panel helps in managing electrical loads and can be advantageous for organization, especially in larger buildings or complex wiring systems.

In contrast to the sub-panel, the main panel, sometimes called the service panel, is where the service entrance feeds the building's electrical system and contains the main disconnect switch. The branch panel is essentially a term that may be used interchangeably with a sub-panel in some contexts, as it can refer to any panel that distributes power to different circuits. However, it does not typically emphasize the distance from the service disconnect.

Therefore, understanding the function and placement of a sub-panel in relation to the service disconnect is crucial in residential and commercial electrical systems, which is why this terminology is standardized in the electrical industry.