Mixing brands of panels and breakers

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jeff48356

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Livonia, Michigan
I realize that all breakers in a panel must be of the same brand as the panel. But would I be allowed to install a different brand of sub-panel next to the main panel if extra circuits are needed for an addition? The main panel is an Eaton brand, and I would like to install a Square-D Homeline sub-panel next to it, and fed off it (with an Eaton breaker, of course). Or would I need to stick with an Eaton brand sub-panel?
 
Personal preference, but I always try to match brands, even if it's not my preferred type. This is assuming it's a panel type that is still made today.

I just think it looks cleaner.
 
The one caveat to be aware of is if the fault current is high enough that you need and have series ratings on your equipment. Different brand breakers won't series rate. Unlikely to be an issue in resi most of the time, but be careful of this in commercial or larger services.
 
electrofelon said:
The one caveat to be aware of is if the fault current is high enough that you need and have series ratings on your equipment. Different brand breakers won't series rate. Unlikely to be an issue in resi most of the time, but be careful of this in commercial or larger services.
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OK, thanks. I never considered that, since I only do residential work. I'll look for an Eaton sub-panel. I know Home Depot doesn't carry them, but I'll check Lowe's and Menards this weekend.
 
jeff48356 said:
OK, thanks. I never considered that, since I only do residential work. I'll look for an Eaton sub-panel. I know Home Depot doesn't carry them, but I'll check Lowe's and Menards this weekend.
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I like Eaton panels and put Eaton subpanels everywhere I go regardless of the main panel's brand. I also buy them all at Home Depot. Not sure why yours doesn't have them.
 
jeff48356 said:
OK, thanks. I never considered that, since I only do residential work. I'll look for an Eaton sub-panel. I know Home Depot doesn't carry them, but I'll check Lowe's and Menards this weekend.
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Our HD does, but the only reason to match in this case is for aesthetics.
 
There's no Code that requires you to install the same brand panel. Just an FYI, you can install other brand breakers in that panel if they are listed for that panel. Chances are you're not going to get a different style breaker to fit into a tan handle CH load center. However, you can use Siemens or some other breakers in a Bryant panel for example.

http://www.pceca.net/images/stories/eaton_panelboard_compatibility_list.pdf
 
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