My electrical inspector told me I have too many devices on my basement circuit. Which is accurate :)
I need 2 additional AFCI circuits for: laundry room and basement receptacles. Problem is, my panel looks pretty full, and I don't think they make AFCI breakers for my panel... inspector told me easiest way was probably to add a sub-panel.
Could you guys help me fit 2 AFCI circuits? or how to fit sub-panel for new circuits?
Some helpful details:
Main panel is ITE BL Loadcenter, 200A service. In the photos you'll see two 20A breakers switched off. They are labelled A/C, but I don't have an A/C. I haven't noticed anything missing power since switching that off. I have no idea where those wires go, so can probably use that spot.
For a sub-panel, I'd like to future proof with a 100A, but I haven't found a 100A breaker for my ITE panel. Let me know if you can find a compatible breaker!
Any alternative solution would be great too! Current setup, all on one basement circuit:
- 8 general purpose receptacles (needs AFCI),
- 2 general purpose light boxes (does NOT need AFCI),
- 16 LED pot lights (does NOT need AFCI),
- 1 receptacle for kitchen fridge (does NOT need AFCI),
- 1 receptacle for laundry machine (needs AFCI) (and this one laundry receptacle apparently needs to be separate circuit :(
The current plan is to keep all basement lights and fridge receptacle on existing non-AFCI circuit. Then add AFCI circuits for all basement receptacles + laundry receptacle.
I think 12 devices is max. Maybe I can just add one AFCI circuit for laundry and have all 16 LED pot lights count as 1 device since they are known, low load... will have to ask inspector, but that still requires at least +1 AFCI circuit.
Photos: