Replace main panel or use subpanel?

MasterofNone · 02-10-2008, 06:04 PM

Hey everyone
Here is my setup and what i would like to do. I have a Sqare D QO12L200RB main lug panel as the main disconnet panel for my house. In it there is one 90 amp breaker that feeds the main panel inside my house and the other slots are taken up with the main 220v circuits for the house (A/C, Hot Water heater, Elect. Range, etc.) I would like to run a line to my shed but have no room left in the panel. Is a subpanel the way to go?? Actually, I would prefer to replace the main lug panel with a main breaker, so I have a way to shut it off. Would it be better to do this instead of installing a subpanel?

Thanks in advance for your help!

redline · 02-10-2008, 07:00 PM

How much power do you need to the shed?

220/221 · 02-10-2008, 11:31 PM

It would be a cleaner but more costly installation to go with the new main breaker panel. If you prefer it, go for it.

You would have to relocate one of your 240 circuits into the new sub if you went the other route.

MasterofNone · 02-11-2008, 08:46 AM

I would like to run about a 50 amp line to the shed. Its probably much more than I would use, but I would like to have the extra power for any unforseen uses in the future.

J. V. · 02-11-2008, 10:37 AM

If you do not have any spaces left you need to upgrade the service panel. You cannot double up circuits (2 or more wires) under one breaker.
Have you taken the panel cover off? It's possible you have spare breakers in there. If you can find two spares then you can add the sub panel. Under no circumstance do you want more than one wire under one terminal. Do not tap off the main either.
50 amp is not much. If you plan on a welder or other machinery look to go up.

MasterofNone · 02-11-2008, 01:30 PM

I have been in the panel and there is definitely no more breakers. Couldn't I just relocate one of the 240 circuits into a subpanel as suggested above?

220/221 · 02-11-2008, 08:43 PM

Quote:

Couldn't I just relocate one of the 240 circuits into a subpanel as suggested above?

Yeah...that's why I suggested it

How many breakers are in your main panel?

MasterofNone · 02-12-2008, 12:51 AM

There are 6 breakers in the main panel.

220/221 · 02-12-2008, 01:24 AM

That's what I thought.

You cannot legally use any twins to make space because you have to be able to shut everything off with six "breakers" or less.