main service????

[sparky]

I am updating wiring in a apartment building each panel has a main breaker at the meter stack. each apartment has a 100 amp subpanel main lug. The inspector is applying the six disconnect rule to the sub panel that has a total of eight breakers in it and says the panel must be changed to a main breaker panel???? Please provide some input either way.

 

[raider1]

The inspector is incorrect.

If the service consists of main breakers feeding each panel then the panels are not required to have a local disconnecting means and main lugs only panels are fine.

Ask the inspector to cite the code reference.

Chris

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I would ask the inspector what section he/she is citing. If there isn't a section that requires it then maybe he will be enlightened. I have not done apartment but if they have access to their mains I don't know why they would need a main breaker.

 

[hillbilly1]

Must be some local code if what he is saying is valid, I had an inspector once that wanted a main in a panel for a very small retail space. The service disconnect was back in a common meter room. There was only five breakers in the panel, so I just BS him that it fell under the six switch rule. Then after he signed the permit he asked off the record he was wiring his own house, and what size of wire he needed for the dryer!

 

[rltomkinson]

I believe the six breaker rule the inspector is referencing is article 230.71 which applies to services. The service cannot have more than six breakers or disconnects. But your service only has one breaker which is back at the meter.

Rich