Okay, this is a tricky situation and potentially dangerous. It sounds like you've identified a problem but the temporary "fix" you implemented could mask the underlying issue and create a significant safety hazard. Let's break down what's likely happening and what you absolutely need to do.

Understanding the Problem Missing Neutral

The most likely culprit is a

severed or loose neutral wire between your main panel and subpanel. This is extremely dangerous. Voltage Imbalance

In a properly functioning 220V/240V system, you have two "hot" legs, each supplying approximately 120V to neutral. When the neutral connection is broken, the 120V loads in the subpanel act as a voltage divider. The leg with more load on it will "pull down" the voltage on that side, while the leg with less load will have a higher voltage. This can lead to some circuits receiving too much voltage and others receiving too little, potentially damaging appliances.

Your Temporary "Fix"

When you connected the 4-gauge green wire (which should be a ground wire) between the main and subpanel grounds, you inadvertently created a new, albeit insufficient, path for the neutral current to return to the main panel. This temporarily balanced the voltage and allowed the circuits to function, but it's a

very unsafe situation. Why 80V on the Disconnected Wire? The 80V reading on the disconnected wire is likely "phantom voltage". This can occur because the wire is running parallel to other energized conductors. There's a small amount of capacitive coupling between the wires, inducing a voltage on the disconnected wire. This is normal, but it's NOT a real voltage capable of carrying any significant current.

Why This is Extremely Dangerous1. Overloaded Ground

You are now using the ground wire to carry neutral current. Ground wires are designed for fault current, not continuous current. This can cause the ground wire to overheat, creating a fire hazard.2.

Electrical Shock

If there's a fault in any appliance connected to a circuit in the subpanel, the ground wire (which is now carrying neutral current) could become energized. Touching any grounded metal (like a pipe, appliance casing, or even the subpanel enclosure) could result in a severe electrical shock.3.

Damaged Appliances

The voltage imbalance caused by the missing neutral can damage sensitive electronics and appliances.

Immediate Actions1. Turn Off the Breaker

Immediately turn off the main breaker feeding the subpanel. Disconnect the green wire that you used as a temporary fix. Do not attempt to use the subpanel until the problem is properly diagnosed and repaired.2.

Call a Qualified Electrician

This is not a DIY repair. You need a licensed electrician to diagnose and fix the problem. They will have the proper tools and expertise to safely and correctly identify and repair the broken neutral wire.3.

Do Not Attempt Further Repairs

Do not try to troubleshoot or repair the problem yourself unless you are a qualified electrician. You could make the situation worse and put yourself and others at serious risk.

The Electrician Will Likely



Inspect the Neutral Connection

The electrician will carefully inspect the neutral connection at both the main panel and the subpanel for loose connections, corrosion, or damage.

Test the Neutral Wire

They will use a multimeter and other testing equipment to verify the continuity of the neutral wire.

Replace or Repair the Neutral Wire

If the neutral wire is damaged or broken, they will replace or repair it as needed.

Ensure Proper Grounding

They will also verify that the grounding system is properly installed and functioning correctly.

Important Safety Reminders Electricity is dangerous. Always take precautions when working with electrical systems. Never work on electrical circuits while they are energized. If you are not comfortable working with electricity, always hire a qualified electrician. Regularly inspect your electrical system for signs of damage or wear.In summary, you have a serious electrical problem that requires the immediate attention of a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to use the subpanel until the problem has been properly diagnosed and repaired. The temporary "fix" you implemented is dangerous and should be removed immediately. Flag for review