What we call “subpanels” are not specifically addressed under the NEC, because they are considered to be Branch Circuit and Lighting Panelboards. I interpret this allowance as applying to the main feeds to a dwelling, not the conductors used to supply a “subpanel.” The point of this reduction is that the load served by most Dwellings is rather varied in nature and won’t approach the real ampacity of the conductors. Conductor Types RHH, RHW, RHW-2, THHN, THHW, THW, THW-2, THWN, THWN-2, XHHW, XHHW-2, SE, USE, USE-2 that defines an allowable reduction in ampacity for conductors that meet certain circumstances. There is a table, 310.15(B)(6) Conductor Types and Sizes for 120/240-Volt, 3-Wire, Single-Phase Dwelling Services and Feeders. Section 310.15 has the rules for conductors from 0-2000 volts. The topic of conductor ampacity requirements for “subpanels” has been the topic of spirited debate on the professional electricians forums. If there is a point you want to challenge, you can ask to see the code requirement that an inspector is basing a decision on. Last edited by Mike Cutler 03-07-2008 at 5:54 PM.įirst, the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) decides whether the installation meets the local code requirements. You stated that this was one of several things that failed. I know this is a harsh and unhelpful answer, but this issue is the responsibility of the electrician.ĭon't settle for an 80 amp installation, if you contracted for a 100 amp. They should have been aware of the prevailing inspection criteria that would have to be met. It is up to the license to have the permit signed off for a 100 amp subpanel. In your case, you hired and paid a licensed electrician for a legally installed and inspected subpanel. If this is not correct, it helps to more understand the inspectors position. I'm assuning that this subpanel is in your residence. Inspectors are increasingly adopting a more conservative approach to the inspection criteria in anticipation of future un-inspected modifications that will be made to electrical installations, by unlicensed individuals, ie. To attempt to protect future users from DIY's. What you are experiencing is a growing trend in electrical installation/inspection. It still may not overturn the inspectors position though.Ĭan you install an 80 amp breaker to pass the inspection, and then install a 100 amp breaker after you pass the inspection? Yes, and it will be a violation of your permit on record. In the meantime though you are without an inspected panel.Ĭan you prove that the wire is adequate? Possibly. There are processes that the license can go through to appeal the inspectors ruling. You contracted for a 100 amp sub panel, not an 80 amp panel. Should he of run #1 wire? Can I preove the #2 is ok or should I just change the breaker to a 80 amp breaker for the inspector.You hired the license, and paid the premium, to install a code legal 100 amp sub panel. Where can I look this up, my subpanel and main have about 8' of wire connectiong them. The electrition came back and had to run a new wire and he is insisting the 2awg alumin wire is fine for 100Amps. I had a subpanel installed and it failed for several things one item is that the electriction ran 3c 2awg alumin wire and the inspeactor says that is not good for 100A.
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