Moving residential service panel

[jim3394]

I was asked to move a service panel for a general contractor. (also my brother-in-law). The move is out of a bathroom in the basement onto an adjascent wall. Approximately an additional 6 feet. My issue is that the panel does not have proper grounding as it relates to todays code. My suggestion would be do an entire upgrade from mast on down. My question is if the homeowner does not want this added expense can I add the ground rods and bond to water meter on existing without going from a "move" to an "upgrade" and everything that goes with it, or should I just do the standard move.

Thanks, Jim

 

[1793]

What grounding is improper or not up to date?

 

[LarryFine]

My question is if the homeowner does not want this added expense can I add the ground rods and bond to water meter on existing without going from a "move" to an "upgrade" and everything that goes with it, or should I just do the standard move.

Jim, usually, you have the option of relocating existing circuits to the new panel, using the existing box as a J-box, or re-feeding the existing box as a sub-panel. The latter requires separating neutrals and grounds, of course.

Because the intent here is to relocate the panel itself, and not do an upgrade, it sounds like your choice is really whether to reuse the exsiting panel (and its supply) or turn this into an all-new service, similar to an upgrade.

So, the question is do you intend to reuse the existing equipment? The labor difference is minimal if the exsiting service (meter, cables, etc.) is adequate, in good shape, will reach the new location, and you don't need a new main.

 

[jim3394]

I believe the grounding is not up to date because there is no ground rods and is not bonded at the water meter, water pope only. My intention is to use the existing panel and run longer wires from meter base. I belive it would be safer if I also put in ground rods and bond when I do this. But I don't know if that would open me up to other upgrades such as afci breakers.

 

[K8MHZ]

I believe the grounding is not up to date because there is no ground rods and is not bonded at the water meter, water pope only. My intention is to use the existing panel and run longer wires from meter base. I belive it would be safer if I also put in ground rods and bond when I do this. But I don't know if that would open me up to other upgrades such as afci breakers.

If you have a good relationship with the local AHJ, it's best to give that person a call and run a plan review past them before any work is started. I have never met an inspector that does not prefer this method.

There is a difference between asking an inspector to design or recommend work and asking if a design you came up with is suitable or not.