[pjbadding]

As long as the main disconnect is within/on the same structure as the panel NO main or local disconnect is required.


It would be a main panel, but it would not be the service equipment since the main disconnect would be separate from it.


Any 200A service rated fused disconnect or breaker enclosure. If it will be outdoors it would need to be outdoor rated.

I just talked to a guy and he mentioned that he's installed this configuration using a 320 Meter Base that included 2 200 AMP Breakers. Would this be the simplest way to install the configuration that I need?

 

[Jim Port]

With that setup the services are grouped at the meterbase. Both interior panels would be wired as subpanels with 4 wire feeds.

 

[pjbadding]

With that setup the services are grouped at the meterbase. Both interior panels would be wired as subpanels with 4 wire feeds.

Is there any advantage or disadvantage to this setup?

 

[Jim Port]

Saves the cost of a disconnect

 

[Know A Little]

Saves the cost of a disconnect

and the cost of main breaker panels.

 

[Speedy Petey]

A 320/400A meter base with main breakers is quite expensive, so I don't really see any cost savings there. It is simpler to install and cleaner though.

 

[Jim Port]

I have seen main breaker panels cheaper than MLO panels.

 

[Know A Little]

I have seen main breaker panels cheaper than MLO panels.

Very well could be in a single phase panel as a Main CB is more common.

 

[pjbadding]

All - I really appreciate all of the great information provided here and the very helpful responses. I have decided to go with a 320/400 Meter Base/Combo with 2-200 AMP Breakers along with 2 Main Lug Panels rather than 2 Main CB Panels.

Now, I'm trying to decided on what size main lug panels to go with. I've put together the circuit configuration below. Do I go with 30-30 panels?

 

[Jim Port]

Many 200 amp panels are 40 circuits. It does not hurt to have more room.

 

[pjbadding]

Given that I plan on adding a Morton building and generator hookup, do you suggest going with 40-40 full-size main lug panels?

Additionally, do you see any issues with the branch-circuit setup I've put together?

 

[Oso954]

Additionally, do you see any issues with the branch-circuit setup I've put together?

First thing that jumped out is GFCIs. You missed the garage receptacles. Also, the basement receptacles, if the basement is not finished.

Also, if you are IDing GFCIs, why are you not identifying AFCI protection?

 

[pjbadding]

First thing that jumped out is GFCIs. You missed the garage receptacles. Also, the basement receptacles, if the basement is not finished.

Also, if you are IDing GFCIs, why are you not identifying AFCI protection?

I've been reviewing code and haven't gotten to the point where I 100% know what needs AFCI protection. My understanding is that AFCI protection is required on all circuits supplying wall outlets. Is this correct and does it apply to the bath and Kitchen small appliance circuits?

 

[Jim Port]

What edition of the code is adopted in your area?

 

[pjbadding]

What edition of the code is adopted in your area?

National Electric Code /2008 as referenced in Section 1201.1.1

 

[Oso954]

My understanding is that AFCI protection is required on all circuits supplying wall outlets.

When the code says outlets, they are talking about any point of use, not "wall outlets". Those are referred to as receptacles or receptacle outlets. So the lighting circuits in the dwelling will require AFCI as well.

The 2008 requirements,

"(B) Dwelling Units. All 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sun rooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter, combination-type, installed to provide protection of the branch circuit."

I would interpret that to include finished rooms or areas in a basement.

Looking at it the other way, kitchen,bathrooms, laundry and the garage don't need them.

 

[pjbadding]

I've modified the image to replicate a 40-40 panel to show how the panels will be setup. I've also added the GFCI and AFCI call-outs. I've tried balancing the load as best I can but I'm not sure it's best practice or not. Any input on this would be great.

 

[Know A Little]

Many 200 amp panels are 40 circuits. It does not hurt to have more room.

:thumbsup:

For the difference in cost go with the maximum number CB's allowed 40.

 

[Oso954]

Why would 40 be the maximum number allowed in this case ?

I thought the 42 circuit rule got removed in 2008. What am I missing ?

 

[Speedy Petey]

When the code says outlets, they are talking about any point of use, not "wall outlets". Those are referred to as receptacles or receptacle outlets. So the lighting circuits in the dwelling will require AFCI as well.

The 2008 requirements,...........

And the 2014NEC goes insane over the top with these requirements, like refers and DW's as well. Pretty much everything in a dwelling.