Resi Feeder overcurrent protection

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Mule

Mule

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Location
Oklahoma
Ok, trying to do this right....I'm moving a existing main panel to a interior wall, 60cir/ft. I'l be installing a exterior service disconecting means that is 200amp. Disconect or in this case (breaker) will be fed by 3/0 service entrance conductors to match the riser conductors.....problem is the HO thinks I should match the 3/0 for the feeder, and Im thinking I dont have to do this. So I just need to know if Im wrong here....maybe missing something....

So, Here's my question.....can't I downsize from the 3/0 since its resi, and run 2/0 in 2" pvc using 215.3 and 240.4(b), and 310.15(b)(6)?
 
Mule said:
Ok, trying to do this right....I'm moving a existing main panel to a interior wall, 60cir/ft. I'l be installing a exterior service disconecting means that is 200amp. Disconect or in this case (breaker) will be fed by 3/0 service entrance conductors to match the riser conductors.....problem is the HO thinks I should match the 3/0 for the feeder, and Im thinking I dont have to do this. So I just need to know if Im wrong here....maybe missing something....

So, Here's my question.....can't I downsize from the 3/0 since its resi, and run 2/0 in 2" pvc using 215.3 and 240.4(b), and 310.15(b)(6)?
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First off 3/0 is copper or aluminum? Secondly as long as the feeder carries the entire load of the service you can use (B)(6). I don't believe 215.3 comes into play
 
We will be using copper for sure, running 2inch pvc betwen structural members will be a big enough challange as it is, and as stated large enough feeder cable is not in stock and HO wants this done this week......thanks.....I thought I was correct.......:smile:
 
Dennis Alwon said:
If the homeowner wants to pay for 3/0 copper then why argue.
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This guy also has a upscale kitchen business, and wants to use us as a EC. So if he learns that I work for his best intrest and his pocket book, he'll apreciate that.......................:D
 
This is quite common to me, I simply run a #4/0 alum. 4 wire sera wire from the outside meter-disco to the new panel...romex connectors...pretty simple. You don't have to match the riser wires (in your situation) unless you just want to (if they are 3/0 copper that is).
 
Mule said:
We will be using copper for sure, running 2inch pvc betwen structural members will be a big enough challange as it is, and as stated large enough feeder cable is not in stock and HO wants this done this week......thanks.....I thought I was correct.......:smile:
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I haven't used aluminum in years and no one stocks copper se cable in the large sizes so I pipe everything-- a challenge at times but doable so far.
 
Your sure going after this the hard costly way. 4/0 alum.ser is a lot easier thru studs than 2 inch pvc and copper. But when customer wants the best and can pay for it then grab the money. Willing to bet the poco runs alum to that riser. Ever hear about the weakest link.
 
Jim W in Tampa said:
Your sure going after this the hard costly way. 4/0 alum.ser is a lot easier thru studs than 2 inch pvc and copper. But when customer wants the best and can pay for it then grab the money. Willing to bet the poco runs alum to that riser. Ever hear about the weakest link.
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I think aluminum still has a unfair reputation when used for interior wiring. Alot of my customers, even if they dont know much, they do not want alum.

I'll have to install a 2" LB just inside, so I talked to the inspector about making it accessible , and he's ok with a removable panel in the sheetrock.....So I guess we're ready to rock and rolll...............well as soon as I reserve a rental core bit and hilti, as the entrance point has to be moved over a bit..........:D
 
Mule said:
I think aluminum still has a unfair reputation when used for interior wiring. Alot of my customers, even if they dont know much, they do not want alum.

I'll have to install a 2" LB just inside, so I talked to the inspector about making it accessible , and he's ok with a removable panel in the sheetrock.....So I guess we're ready to rock and rolll...............well as soon as I reserve a rental core bit and hilti, as the entrance point has to be moved over a bit..........:D
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As always people are scared about things they know little or nothing about. Alum. in small sizes are a problem because it is so soft that can be damaged easy. The bad reputation got created in late 60's. First time i seen it was when i helped my brother inlaw wire his basement for a family room. I looked at what was in the panel and was like WHATS THIS STUFF. Needless to say we bought copper. It has cost millions of home owners a lot to fix or replace. I have very little problems with customers over usuing it for the service and feeders. Educate them and they will be happy to save the money. But always give them the choice.
 
Jim W in Tampa said:
As always people are scared about things they know little or nothing about. Alum. in small sizes are a problem because it is so soft that can be damaged easy. The bad reputation got created in late 60's. First time i seen it was when i helped my brother inlaw wire his basement for a family room. I looked at what was in the panel and was like WHATS THIS STUFF. Needless to say we bought copper. It has cost millions of home owners a lot to fix or replace. I have very little problems with customers over usuing it for the service and feeders. Educate them and they will be happy to save the money. But always give them the choice.
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I agree, in this case HO wants it done now, aand doesnt want to wait to order cable......I love T/M, no worries, just whistle while you work....:grin:
 
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