sub-panels

[ronaldsax]

Is there any rules ,or anything in the code that aplies to sub-panels? like , when or where to put a sub panel?
I have a situation where from the main disco comes out a 1 1/4" raceway bringing branchcircuits to 2 12 x 12 j boxes , the wiring is all messed up , then I need to find the neutrals for the bedrooms to put them on a AFCI .
I was thinking if it would be better if instead of having all those messed wires (thhn) from the main disco into 2 j boxes , I better use the 1 1/4" raceway to bring a feeder to a sub panel, so I eliminate the 2 j boxes with the ugly looking bunch of wires, but my doubt is , if I can do that without violating the code, of course I'll have to do the load calculation for the new sub.
also can I feed another sub panel from this sub panel?

 

[rcarroll]

The load calculation would really be for the main breaker size, not a sub panel unless you're talking about a huge addition. You can put a sub panel anywhere as long as it meets the requirements of 110.26 & 240.24. I suppose you can feed thru to as many as you like. A sub panel in every room will still be protected from the main breaker.

 

[ronaldsax]

yes , the load calculation would be for my wire sizing and breaker size ,I just wanted to be sure that I wont be violating any code rules.
Any suggestions about installing a sub panel , beside not bonding the neutral and graound?, right wire size and breaker size?.

 

[ronaldsax]

any suggestions?

 

[charlie b]

I am not sure what you are asking. Suggestions with regard to what? Best brand name to buy for the sub-panel? Current ratings? Voltage ratings? Number of breaker slots? Locations for installation? MLO versus Main Breaker?

You can have a main panel feed a subpanel which in turn feeds another subpanel which in turn feeds another subpanel which in turn . . . . The same requirements apply to each subpanel. Examples of the related requirements are that you must have working clearance, the subpanels can't be in a bathroom or a closet, each feeder to a subpanel must be protected against overcurrent, each subpanel must also be protected against overcurrent.

Can you clarify your question?

 

[growler]

Is there any rules ,or anything in the code that aplies to sub-panels? like , when or where to put a sub panel?

To make it simple you will have to follow the same rules for a sub panel that you would follow for a main panel. Don't install in a bathroom or clothes closet and make sure you have proper working clearance to include headroom. ( most common mistakes ).

It's a good idea to make sure the customer is happy with the location that you choose. Make sure that the working clearance is not going to be blocked by some other installation during the remodel. ( I posted not long ago about a homeowner that built a closet in front of a sub panel that I installed and on a latter job was forced to cut the closet down to size).

 

[haskindm]

The "right wire and breaker size" would be entirely dependent on YOUR installation design. Are you installing two general purpose residential receptacle/lighting circuits? Six circuits? Is there any equipment to be fed from sub-panel? You can't just pull numbers from the air. Come up with a design and the members of this forum can make suggestions, but at this point YOU are the only one who has seen the job and understands what you are trying to accomplish. At this point I could tell you to install a 100-amp sub panel fed with 500 KCM Copper wire (just in case there is any voltage drop) but I don't think it would be helpful.