You are correct to be questioning this. The inspector's statement contradicts both common practice and likely the manufacturer's instructions. Here's a breakdown of why: Manufacturer's Instructions are King

The NEC (National Electrical Code) 110.3(B) states: "Listed or labeled equipment shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling." This means that whatever the panel manufacturer specifies on the panel cover, or in their documentation, is what you must follow. If the instructions don't differentiate between ground and neutral conductors, then the instructions apply to both.

Neutral and Ground Bar Design

Neutral and ground bars are not interchangeable. The panel is listed and the termination hardware has been designed to only work with a specified number of conductors.

NEC Considerations Termination capacity

Terminals must be rated to hold the number and size of conductors terminated in them.

Overheating

Exceeding the recommended fill capacity of a terminal could lead to excessive heat and failure.

In summary


Refer to the Panel's Instructions

Check the specific manufacturer's instructions for that panel. This is your definitive guide. If it specifies conductor fill for both neutrals and grounds equally, that's your rule.2.

Grounds vs. Neutrals



Grounds (Equipment Grounding Conductors)

Multiple grounds can be permitted under a single screw in some circumstances. See NEC 250.8(A)(5) but the terminal must be identified for the purpose.

Neutrals (Grounded Conductors)



Neutrals always require individual terminations, unless the terminal is specifically listed for multiple conductors. This is because they carry current under normal operation. Sharing a neutral terminal can lead to voltage imbalances and other issues.

What to Do Now


Review the Instructions

Locate the panel's label. It will be inside the panel cover. Look for the section on conductor terminations and torque requirements.2.

Document

Keep a copy of the panel's instructions.3.

Clarify

If the instructions are unclear, contact the panel manufacturer directly. They can provide definitive guidance.4.

Respect the Inspector

Communicate politely with the inspector. Show them the manufacturer's instructions. Explain why you believe the current installation complies with the instructions and the NEC.5.

Change if Necessary

If the manufacturer's instructions do allow multiple neutrals, then you're fine. However, if they don't, you'll need to correct the connections to have only one neutral per hole.

Why the Inspector Might Have Said That



Misunderstanding

The inspector might be misremembering something, applying a rule that doesn't apply to this situation, or making a generalization.*

"Gentle Nudge"

Some inspectors will make suggestions to raise awareness of future issues, even if it's not a code violation in the present situation.

In Conclusion

Follow the manufacturer's instructions. If you can't find the instructions, contact the manufacturer. If the instructions say "one conductor per hole," then that's the rule, regardless of what the inspector "mentioned." Keep documentation to support your work.

Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot. Consult with a qualified electrician and local inspector to ensure compliance with all applicable codes and regulations. Flag for review