Main breaker/main lug sub panels

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LEO2854 said:
A sub panel does not need one.:thumbsup:
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Well that depends!:)

ActionDave said:
Never.
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Never say never!:p

Sierrasparky said:
Remote structure more than 6 handles
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:thumbsup:

To add to these answers:
True you don't have to install a main breaker. But sometimes you do have to have a disconnect which could be a breaker or fused disconnect.
Basically, if the subpanel is not in/on the same building as it is being fed from, you need a means to disconnect all the ungrounded conductors if there is more than 6 handles (breakers) or 6 "throws of the hand".
 
Little Bill said:
Well that depends!:)



Never say never!:p



:thumbsup:

To add to these answers:
True you don't have to install a main breaker. But sometimes you do have to have a disconnect which could be a breaker or fused disconnect.
Basically, if the subpanel is not in/on the same building as it is being fed from, you need a means to disconnect all the ungrounded conductors if there is more than 6 handles (breakers) or 6 "throws of the hand".
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Right, That's what I thought. I'm far from a code book guru and I generally go with what I was taught (along with trying to keep up with changes each cycle). Thanks.
 
I am still going with a main breaker is never required in a panel. It is a design choice.


A disconnecting means for a remote structure or building is required but how that is accomplished is also a design choice.
 
Are you saying a remote structure (shed) needs a means of disconnect at the remote structure no matter how many handles?

Running 30 amp 240volt to shed. Looking at using main lug panel. Will only put 2 circuits off of said panel. Disconnect located at shed required? Or is the 30 amp DP breaker in garage supplying said panel sufficient?
 
mjf said:
Are you saying a remote structure (shed) needs a means of disconnect at the remote structure no matter how many handles?

Running 30 amp 240volt to shed. Looking at using main lug panel. Will only put 2 circuits off of said panel. Disconnect located at shed required? Or is the 30 amp DP breaker in garage supplying said panel sufficient?
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If only 2 circuits then you are good. You need a 4W feeder and a GES at shed.
 
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mjf said:
Are you saying a remote structure (shed) needs a means of disconnect at the remote structure no matter how many handles?

Running 30 amp 240volt to shed. Looking at using main lug panel. Will only put 2 circuits off of said panel. Disconnect located at shed required? Or is the 30 amp DP breaker in garage supplying said panel sufficient?
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If you are under the 2011 or earlier code, the second building disconnect must be suitable for use as service equipment. Some panels are only so listed where a main breaker is installed in the panel.
 
mjf said:
When are we required to install a main breaker in a sub panel as opposed to using a main lug panel?
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The question is not specific enough to rule it out so here goes.....don't forget a sub panel supplied by a transformer will usually need one. Yes not required to be in that panel but typically how it would be done. Wait, maybe that wouldn't be a sub-panel, let me grab my NEC and look up the definition of "sub panel" ;)
 
electrofelon said:
The question is not specific enough to rule it out so here goes.....don't forget a sub panel supplied by a transformer will usually need one. Yes not required to be in that panel but typically how it would be done. Wait, maybe that wouldn't be a sub-panel, let me grab my NEC and look up the definition of "sub panel" ;)
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Ooo ooo ooo.... just thought of another one: A panel supplied by a tap. And yet another one: when the main breaker panel is cheaper than the main lug version, as the case with those 100A MB homeline value packs ;)
 
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