Size of a Service

[solarken]

So I know there are all sorts of requirements for sizing conductors, disconnects, OCPD, etc. But when we consider the size of a single phase dwelling service, i.e. 200A, 150A, etc, what parameters define the size of the service? Is it the least common denominator of the service entrance conductors, the main service OCPD, the busbar of the service equipment? Or is it just the main OCPD rating? For example, consider a situation where the service conductors, the meter, and the main load center could be rated for 200A, but there is a 150A main breaker installed. Is that a 150A service? Another example, if the busbar in Load center is rated for 225A, and the service entrance conductors are 4/0 copper (250A rating per 310.12), but the load center has a 200A main breaker, is that a 225A service? a 200A service?

Any code references would be helpful. Or maybe this is a subjective concept, "size of service". Thanks.

 

[xformer]

So I know there are all sorts of requirements for sizing conductors, disconnects, OCPD, etc. But when we consider the size of a single phase dwelling service, i.e. 200A, 150A, etc, what parameters define the size of the service? Is it the least common denominator of the service entrance conductors, the main service OCPD, the busbar of the service equipment? Or is it just the main OCPD rating? For example, consider a situation where the service conductors, the meter, and the main load center could be rated for 200A, but there is a 150A main breaker installed. Is that a 150A service? Another example, if the busbar in Load center is rated for 225A, and the service entrance conductors are 4/0 copper (250A rating per 310.12), but the load center has a 200A main breaker, is that a 225A service? a 200A service?

Any code references would be helpful. Or maybe this is a subjective concept, "size of service". Thanks.

IHMO... I would say that OCPD size determines the size

 

[infinity]

For example, consider a situation where the service conductors, the meter, and the main load center could be rated for 200A, but there is a 150A main breaker installed. Is that a 150A service?

Yes.

Another example, if the busbar in Load center is rated for 225A, and the service entrance conductors are 4/0 copper (250A rating per 310.12), but the load center has a 200A main breaker, is that a 225A service? a 200A service?

Yes.