Minimum breaker for multiple meter panel

[bencelest]

When there are 6 apartments in one building and the main panel has 6 separate meters per apartment, the existing main breaker per apartment is 30 amperes since the apartment is only 480 square feet and the main load is mostly a refrigerator and microwave in the kitchen, is there a code for minimum breaker requirement for todays' environment? I called PG&E but no response from them. Or do I have to compute as per 2002 NEC requirement and go from there. I.E. kitchen, living rm and bathroom minimum load computation. (no bedroom). And replace the existing subpanel, wires etc...

 

[steve66]

Re: Minimum breaker for multiple meter panel

See 230.42(A) and (B) and 230.79 (C) and (D). Also, there is a definition for dwelling in Article 100.

Sounds to me like each apartment would be a single family dwelling which would require a 100A service per 230.79 (C).

I am not sure you would have to upgrade an existing service though. It depends on what other work you are doing.

Steve

 

[charlie]

Re: Minimum breaker for multiple meter panel

I called PG&E but no response from them.

Good, they would be overstepping their bounds if they were to answer your question. This is a NEC issue that is between you, the AHJ, and the owner. This is not an NESC issue for PG&E to be involved with.

 

[pierre]

Re: Minimum breaker for multiple meter panel

The requirement of 100 amp minimum is for one-family dwelling 230.79(C) for all others, 230.79 (D) a rating of not less than 60 amperes.

Pierre