Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: finster1, Location: New Jersey
Asked on: Sunday, March 27, 2011 at 8:53 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:21 am EDT
Question: Looking for a little advice, new to generator transfer switch wiring.........I have a Kohler 20res with a 100a transfer switch with 16 circuits,I have wired everything but was wondering if anyone knows, instead of swinging all the circuits into the new transfer switch to the panel board, can I just run a conduit from panel to panel and just tie in the the hots to the breaker? It just seems to be a much neater job.I would wire nut all the hots in the main panel and bring them over to the Kohler panel/transfer switch. Will the inspector accept this? I haven't broken the neutral or the ground from panel to panel just carried them over and the only thing the contactor breaks are the two lines. This is a residential application and have seen other jobs where this is what the EC did, but never knew if it was ok. What do you guys think?Electrical Contractor NJ
Code Requirements
According to the National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 702.5(D), each individual circuit intended to supply power from the alternate source shall have a disconnect means located on the building's service equipment.
Best Practice
While it is technically permissible under the NEC to run a single conduit between the main panel and the transfer switch panel, it is not considered best practice.
Reasons to Avoid Swinging Circuits
Reduced Reliability
Swinging multiple circuits through a single conduit increases the potential for breaks or shorts in the conductors, leading to a loss of power.
Maintenance Difficulties
If one circuit requires maintenance, the entire group of circuits will be affected.
Increased Wiring Complexity
Swinging circuits means more conductors in a smaller space, making it more difficult to trace and troubleshoot.
Recommended Approach
Instead, it is highly recommended to wire each circuit individually between the main panel and the transfer switch subpanel. This provides the following benefits: Improved Reliability
Each circuit has its own disconnect and separate conduit, reducing the risk of outages.
Easier Maintenance
Circuits can be isolated for servicing without affecting others.
Clearer Wiring Path
Individual circuits make it easier to trace and troubleshoot, ensuring a proper and safe installation.
Inspector Acceptance
In most cases, an inspector will not accept a wiring method that deviates from best practice and code requirements. Swinging circuits through a single conduit between panels is likely to draw scrutiny and may be rejected.
Conclusion
While it may seem like a neater solution, swinging circuits through a single conduit is not recommended or generally accepted by inspectors. It compromises reliability, maintenance ease, and code compliance. The best practice is to wire each circuit individually between the main panel and the transfer switch subpanel. Flag for review