Need a bunch of dedicated circuits in one area

Red Squirrel

What do you think is best, run them from the panel, or just install a sub panel in that area? I've never bought thick wire before (ex: what would be required for a 100a sub) so no idea how much it cost compared to 12/2 romex. Would running say, 10 12/2 lines to a given location cost more then running a conduit with 4 big conductors?

I'm leaning towards running a sub there anyway. Don't need all that power any time soon, but will in the future so if I was to run a sub I'd just install the circuits as I need them.

jbfan

How far from the main to the point of use?
i would be inclined to run a subpanel.

__________________
Yes I am a Pirate, 200 years too late. "Jimmy Buffett"

LyonsElecSupply

Distance is the big factor here. Also what is your main panel capacity?

Do you have the space for 10 more circuits BUT can your main handle a large subpanel?

To generally answer your question I would say put in an 80-90 amp subpanel using 2/2/2/4 aluminum. Its WAY cheaper than Romex (which is Copper).

But I think I heard that a subpanel should not be more than 75% of your incoming service capacity/main...........

__________________
"Do it right the first time and avoid duplication of effort"

Your AHJ/Inspectors ALWAYS have the final say on ANY electrical code issue.
If in doubt, contact a licensed, experienced, reputable electrician to perform the work.

Red Squirrel

Distance is roughly 30 feet but I did not measure so it's a rough estimate.

Currently the panel cannot handle it because it's full, but I'd run the wire at least and maybe only connect one. I plan to upgrade it at some point. It's only a 100a panel but I would be going to 200a. The nice thing if I run a sub, then I can still run the separate circuits right away.

I've also heard the same about the sub panel capacity. If that is the case, could I just downsize the breaker that feeds it? Chances are I wont need more then 30a of power, but I want plenty of expansion and split stuff across several circuits so I'd still run the wire to handle 100a. Also did not know al could be used still. If that's cheaper and still accepted/safe then I'd go with that.

LyonsElecSupply

Eh, If your panel is full you still need the double poles for the subpanel...


I say put in a little 6 circuit panel or so in your work area. You can add lighting, fans, outlets etc from there. I would put a 50amp breaker for the sub panel and use 6/6/6/6 Aluminum SER......low cost and easy to do.

__________________
"Do it right the first time and avoid duplication of effort"

Your AHJ/Inspectors ALWAYS have the final say on ANY electrical code issue.
If in doubt, contact a licensed, experienced, reputable electrician to perform the work.

brric

Unless Canadian codes are different what you have 'heard' about sub panels is totally false.

jbfan

True.
The size of the subpanel is limited by the largest branch circuit breaker listed for your main panel.

In most cases I have seen, that is rated for 100 amps.
Look on the cover and it will list the largest breaker allowed.

I would use #6 copper and go with 60 amps.

__________________
Yes I am a Pirate, 200 years too late. "Jimmy Buffett"

Red Squirrel

60 amps should work for me, I think I'll just do that. #6 copper might be easier to find too, I think home depot might even have it.

LyonsElecSupply

Go to your supply house and price out 6 SER vs 3 runs of 6 and a run of 8/10 THHN or a 6/3 Romex. Stay away from Home Depot and Lowes as they gouge SER and large gauge Romex prices.

Romex is 60 degree wire and SER is 75, THHN is 90 single runs (must be put into conduit)

__________________
"Do it right the first time and avoid duplication of effort"

Your AHJ/Inspectors ALWAYS have the final say on ANY electrical code issue.
If in doubt, contact a licensed, experienced, reputable electrician to perform the work.

Red Squirrel

Not sure if we have any supply houses that sell to general public here, but I know of one company that I can call and see. What type of wire is normally recommended for a fully indoor run?