Branch Circuit Breaker as Main Breaker

Merry Christmas
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123

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Good Afternoon All,

I've seen installations where one of the breakers in the vertical lineup is connected to the source of power instead of a load. So although it looks like a branch circuit breaker it really is the main breaker to the panel.

Is there anything wrong with installations like these? Is there a code violation? Does this count as inappropriate use of the hardware?

Any comments or code references are appreciated!
 
If the requirement of 408.36(D) is met it is fine.

(D) Back-Fed Devices. Plug-in-type overcurrent protection devices or plug-in type main lug assemblies that are backfed and used to terminate field-installed ungrounded supply conductors shall be secured in place by an additional fastener that requires other than a pull to release the device from the mounting means on the panel.
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Roger
 
To add:

The breaker must not have terminals marked 'line' and/or 'load'

The breaker should be labled "main"
 
123 said:
Is there anything wrong with installations like these? Is there a code violation? Does this count as inappropriate use of the hardware?
Click to expand...

Check the listing of the panel you are using for the maximum size backfeed device (breaker) you may use, and for it's correct position/placement in the panel. Backfeeding for use as a main is Ok but there are some rules you must follow. Make it a habit to read the lables for the equipmnet you are using. Had I learned that earlier, I would have saved a few corrections along the way, and dollars. Live and learn. The manufacturers have ther own style of hold down bracket, clip, screw, etc. that may be used. The styles vary widely.

Welcome to the forum. :smile:
 
MF Dagger said:
And try to keep the wire stripping to a minimum on those wires. Seen em hanging out almost three quarters of an inch before.
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And where can one find that in the NEC?
 
quogueelectric said:
I think it somehow needs to be mechanically secured with a screw to keep the breaker from pulling out.
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I think Roger covered that in post #2


Quote:
(D) Back-Fed Devices. Plug-in-type overcurrent protection devices or plug-in type main lug assemblies that are backfed and used to terminate field-installed ungrounded supply conductors shall be secured in place by an additional fastener that requires other than a pull to release the device from the mounting means on the panel.
 
acrwc10 said:
I think Roger covered that in post #2


Quote:
(D) Back-Fed Devices. Plug-in-type overcurrent protection devices or plug-in type main lug assemblies that are backfed and used to terminate field-installed ungrounded supply conductors shall be secured in place by an additional fastener that requires other than a pull to release the device from the mounting means on the panel.
Click to expand...

Right....Roger covered that in post #2. So....What's your point?
 
frizbeedog said:
Right....Roger covered that in post #2. So....What's your point?
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Nice to see that Quogueelectric has you to look out for his feelings. I guess reading the thread before you repeat a post is to much work. So sorry if I offended you.
 
acrwc10 said:
Nice to see that Quogueelectric has you to look out for his feelings. I guess reading the thread before you repeat a post is to much work. So sorry if I offended you.
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None taken. I'm just a vegetarian. :D
 
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