Adding new panel & making old panel a sub-panel. Size of wire?
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Adding new panel & making old panel a sub-panel. Size of wire?
Here's the scenario:
My current service is overhead and feeds a 100 amp panel. I want to install a new 250 amp panel on the opposite side of the house, and (not that it matters) the service will be underground. I would then feed the existing panel by pulling a wire under the house. My subsequent room additions would be fed directly off of the new panel. The distance between the new and existing panels is about 55 feet. So my question is what size/type of copper wire is required? Alternatively, is this information defined in some code book. I live in Los Angeles county, if it matters.
Thanks, Jim
My current service is overhead and feeds a 100 amp panel. I want to install a new 250 amp panel on the opposite side of the house, and (not that it matters) the service will be underground. I would then feed the existing panel by pulling a wire under the house. My subsequent room additions would be fed directly off of the new panel. The distance between the new and existing panels is about 55 feet. So my question is what size/type of copper wire is required? Alternatively, is this information defined in some code book. I live in Los Angeles county, if it matters.
Thanks, Jim
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Edit: Nevermind. I misunderstood what you were doing!
I think you need to coordinate with the local utility company to change to point of service (and the amperage delivered) to your dwelling? That is what I was told by a local electrician (if I need to increase my main service panel). I did not end up needing to do this (in my case).
Your not really changing the amperage "delivered" to your dwelling as the load is determined by your use but rather ensuring that your current service feed will support 250A.
I have no idea if this varies from state to state and county to county.
From what I understand, you will need at least #2 and more than likely #1 underground rated cable.
Also, from what I have read, you will definitely want to verify what is acceptable by your local inspector since this can vary slightly from one area to another. At those sizes and lengths, the difference will not be "chump change".
I think you need to coordinate with the local utility company to change to point of service (and the amperage delivered) to your dwelling? That is what I was told by a local electrician (if I need to increase my main service panel). I did not end up needing to do this (in my case).
Your not really changing the amperage "delivered" to your dwelling as the load is determined by your use but rather ensuring that your current service feed will support 250A.
I have no idea if this varies from state to state and county to county.
From what I understand, you will need at least #2 and more than likely #1 underground rated cable.
Also, from what I have read, you will definitely want to verify what is acceptable by your local inspector since this can vary slightly from one area to another. At those sizes and lengths, the difference will not be "chump change".
Last edited by gmanvbva; 07-25-13 at 12:57 PM.
#3
I would then feed the existing panel by pulling a wire under the house... I live in Los Angeles county, if it matters.
The distance between the new and existing panels is about 55 feet. So my question is what size/type of copper wire is required?
Alternatively, is this information defined in some code book.
#4
My current service is overhead and feeds a 100 amp panel. I want to install a new 250 amp panel on the opposite side of the house, and (not that it matters) the service will be underground.
I would then feed the existing panel by pulling a wire under the house.
So my question is what size/type of copper wire is required?
I seriously doubt you need more than a 200 amp service unless you are more than doubling the size of the house.