Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: goldcoast, Location: Plainfield, IN
Asked on: Monday, December 6, 2004 at 12:09 pm EST
Answered on: Thursday, May 9, 2024 at 12:47 pm EDT
Question: I am looking at running feeds to two residential sites for a customer. one for a 1500 sq ft home and one for a 2200 sq ft home. The utility co. is feeding us at the begining of the road where we will install the meters with an overhead drop and then run underground to the building sites which are side by side and approx 700 feet away. This will be a standard 120 / 240 volt 1 phase service, and the homes will use gas for heat and misc. items such as hot water, cooking etc. The customer thinks he would like 200 amp services to each home. I'm not sure he needs 200 amps especially at the 1500 sq ft home, and it looks like some pretty hefty feeders to compensate for voltave drop to serve that load. Any recomendations or thoughts? What about bump and boost x-fmrs at the end of the runs? Any imput would be appreciated.Thanks, this site is great.Patrick.
Service Sizing
The 1500 sq ft home is likely to require a 150 amp service, while the 2200 sq ft home may require a 200 amp service. Consider the potential future load growth in the homes.
Feeder Sizing
Determine the voltage drop from the utility meter to the homes. Use the National Electrical Code (NEC) Table 310.15(B)(16) to select the appropriate conductor size based on the allowable voltage drop (typically 3%). For a 700-foot run and a 3% voltage drop, the following conductors may be required: 150 amp service: #4 AWG copper or #2 AWG aluminum 200 amp service: #2 AWG copper or #1 AWG aluminum
Bump and Boost Transformers
Bump and boost transformers can be used to increase the voltage at the end of the feeder run to compensate for voltage drop. However, this is not typically recommended for a residential service due to the increased cost and potential for transformer failure.
Recommendation
Provide a 150 amp service to the 1500 sq ft home and a 200 amp service to the 2200 sq ft home. Use the appropriate conductor sizes to maintain acceptable voltage drop. Consider installing a surge protector at each meter to protect the homes from voltage spikes.
Additional Thoughts: The utility company may have specific requirements for the installation. It is important to obtain a permit from the local electrical authority before starting the project.* Hire qualified electricians to perform the work to ensure safety and compliance with codes. Flag for review