Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Adding a subpanel

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Electrical/Lighting
Remote Name: 207.82.209.244
Date: 09 Apr 2001
Time: 08:57 PM

Comments

First, before accepting any advice from our webboard at face value, always check with your local building codes as well as the latest NEC codes.

However, we can comment on your questions:

1) #6 copper or aluminum wire checks out OK for a 50-foot run @ 60 AMPS. We always prefer copper over aluminum wiring due to its better conductivity and safety. Aluminum wire has been outlawed for home use in most areas due to fire hazards, except in certain cases for main power connections.

2) You will need four wires: two hot, a neutral, and a ground. The ground must connect the two subpanels together. The neutral is required if you plan to have any 120VAC outlets in your shed. Even if you don't plan it now, they always come in handy, so you should plan on it from the get go.

3) A grounding rod is also required for your new subpanel.

4) The neutral and the grounds should NOT be connected (bonded) together at the subpanel. Rather, they should be connected only at the main panel, where the power comes into the house. This is the point where neutral and ground are bonded.

5) Make sure that your current main panel is properly rated for the additional load, as well as the main supply wires.

If this information conflicts with local codes or the NEC, then the latter should prevail over our advise.

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