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7 votes

Does the NEC allow a sub panel to be powered by a generator and an automatic transfer switch?

First, if you're placing a subpanel near the main panel, I want you to run at least 5 conduits between the panels. If they're next to each other this amounts to short "nipples" they call ...
6 votes

Does the NEC allow a sub panel to be powered by a generator and an automatic transfer switch?

A 6KW generator is smallish and I DK if you could find one that is compatible with an ATS. Normally what happens when the power goes out, the ATS sends a signal to the generator to start, then it ...
9 votes

Does the NEC allow a sub panel to be powered by a generator and an automatic transfer switch?

Don't add an empty subpanel just for new future loads. You should thoughtfully move some existing circuits to the new panel, leaving room in both panels for new future circuits. In the end the sub-...
  • 25.2k
20 votes
Accepted

Does the NEC allow a sub panel to be powered by a generator and an automatic transfer switch?

Sure, this isn't an issue What you're proposing isn't a problem at all from a Code standpoint. In fact, it's the normal way automatic transfer is done in facilities that have more complex power needs, ...
1 vote
Accepted

Can I extend feeder wires to my main panel inside the panel?

May depend on your applicable code revision. Per NEC 2020, 230.46 at this point in time (since Jan 1, 2023) all line side splice devices must be marked "suitable for use on the line side of ...
  • 166k
2 votes

Backfeeding a main breaker panel

Do they even make retainers that work with branch breakers in a main breaker panel? Or are the retainers only made for main lug panels where there is more of an expectation that the panel will be ...
4 votes
Accepted

Backfeeding a main breaker panel

If it were me, I would put in a 100A main breaker, assuming one is available, save the 200A for the future and be done. This should be OK to do as you described. Devices to hold down branch breakers ...
6 votes

Can I use a 125A panel with a breaker and wiring sized for 90A?

Maybe 408.36 is what you need: (This is from 2023 edition, but I don't think it's changed significantly in a long time.) 408.36 Overcurrent Protection. In addition to the requirement of 408.30, a ...
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14 votes

Can I use a 125A panel with a breaker and wiring sized for 90A?

I'm going to venture to guess that your inspector is conflating a service with your feeder. A service is the connection from the house to the utility supply. Normally there is no over-current ...
  • 23.5k
4 votes

Can I use a 125A panel with a breaker and wiring sized for 90A?

Oh man, this question keeps coming up over and over again. The inspector is wrong. Just because you have a 125 AMP panel does not mean you need to supply it with 125 amps. The breaker is for ...
2 votes

Extending wiring - can I redesignate neutral as ground?

Nope. Only certain wire re-marking is allowed. Wires #6 or smaller, the only re-marking possible is a white wire being re-marked to be used as a hot, and even then, only if the wires are inside a ...
10 votes

Extending wiring - can I redesignate neutral as ground?

No, you may not. The insulated white wire you are proposing to reuse as ground, is the neutral wire in a 240/120V circuit. (This causes some confusion because it is referred to in the NEC as a ...
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