Downsizing Main Breaker

O

ocd2boot

Member
Location
Southern California
Occupation
Retired Computer Scientist
If I purchase a 200 amp load center, is it possible to change the main breaker to 125 amps?

Reason: most of the load centers that have a 125 amp main breaker, don't have as many spaces as I'd like.

Thanks!
 
I am going to lock this thread. We are not allowed to assist a person who is not an electrician to perform their own electrical installation work. I cannot tell if that applies to you, because you are showing your occupation as "N/A." Please PM me to clarify, if you wish to participate in this forum.
 
After an exchange of PMs with the OP, I have decided to reopen the thread. The OP informed me that he is not an electrician and does not intend to do any installation work himself. He is merely looking into options.
 
ocd2boot said:
If I purchase a 200 amp load center, is it possible to change the main breaker to 125 amps?

Reason: most of the load centers that have a 125 amp main breaker, don't have as many spaces as I'd like.

Thanks!
Click to expand...
Maybe. Sometimes its a different frame size once you go below 150A. Sq D does make a 125 in the larger frame size that would match a 200 (QOM2125VH). Im not about others off the top of my head. You could always back feed a 125A plug on breaker in a MLO as yourmain, or use a 125 enclosed circuit breaker ahead of the panel.
 
You probably can install a 125 amp breaker on the buss and use a hold down kit. You just feed the 125 amp breaker and not the 200 amp breaker. Just leave that breaker as is.
I am sure your electrician can figure this out.
 
As general statement, it is usually possible to downsize overcurrent protection from 200A to 125A. An electrician should be able to confirm that and select the right replacement breaker, depending on if we are talking about a meter/main or a separate panel, and whether you need a main breaker in this panel in the first place.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top