Wire size for 125 amp service
#1
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: USA
Posts: 4
Upvotes: 0
Received 0 Upvotes
on
0 Posts
Wire size for 125 amp service
I want to run from a meter pole 140' underground to a 125 service panel box. What size aluminum wire size do I need. Also if I change my mind about the 125 amp and make it a 200 amp service what wire size would that take?
Thanks; Guys
Thanks; Guys
#4
The larger wire may not fit the lugs or circuit breaker on the smaller panel. You would have to splice short pieces of smaller wire to the 4/0 using proper procedures and materials and then have the smaller wires connect to the panel lugs or main circuit breaker. It may be necessary to make these splices in a separate enclosure as the smaller panel will not have sufficient room.
#5
There will probably be no problem running the #4/0 aluminum, however if you do there's no reason not to install a 200A / 40 space panel. The difference in panel price is almost nothing compared to the price of the wire and the time and effort to install it.
#6
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: USA
Posts: 4
Upvotes: 0
Received 0 Upvotes
on
0 Posts
The reason I was going to use the 125 amp panel is I've got one thats been collecting dust in my shop for 7 years. I even have some breakers for it.
I want to put in a disconnect ahead of the panel box if I use the 125 amp panel. Do I have to use a 125 amp disconnect or can it be less amperage?
Thanks for the advice!
I want to put in a disconnect ahead of the panel box if I use the 125 amp panel. Do I have to use a 125 amp disconnect or can it be less amperage?
Thanks for the advice!
#8
The disconnect has to be the same or larger amps as the main breaker panel. You could install a 200A disconnect to terminate the #4/0 wire and continue on to the 125A main panel with 1/0. In my opinion though this is a convoluted design just to use up spare parts.
#9
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: USA
Posts: 4
Upvotes: 0
Received 0 Upvotes
on
0 Posts
There is no disconnect at the meter, it's not required. If I use a disconnect ahead of the breaker panel I would be able to cut the electricity off at any time I wanted to change to a larger panel. I am going to figure the difference in cost before I get in to buying anything for the 125 amp service panel.