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Topic: Reverse feeding of a main breaker.

User: jdennehy, Location: NJ

Asked on: Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 3:11 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:55 am EDT

Question: Hope fully picture is attached. Came across install today with main feeders terminated on lugs at bottom of panel with 250A main breaker installed. Electrician than wired primary side of 75Kva trans former from line side of main breaker. Looked up listing of Schneider Power Pact JG250A breaker and it can be revers feed if is not listed with line and load.From a safety perspective this is an unsafe installation especially without labeling.Are they any other NEC violations that I am overlooking.?

NEC Violations



240.21(B)

Main overcurrent protective devices (OCPDs) shall be equipped with circuit breaker handles in the "ON" position if supplied only by a feeder circuit breaker (i.e., reverse feeding).


240.85(5)

OCPDs shall not be located where they are exposed to physical damage. The main breaker is located at the bottom of the panel, which is a vulnerable location.

240.82(A)

OCPDs shall be marked to indicate their rated current and nominal voltage. The main breaker is not labeled with its line and load sides.


250.28(A)

The grounding electrode system shall be connected to the grounded conductor of the service at the service disconnecting means. The transformer is not grounded to the service panel.

450.43(D)

Transformers shall be equipped with a permanent label indicating the primary voltage, secondary voltage, and kVA rating. The transformer is not labeled.

Safety Concerns:
If the main breaker trips, the transformer will continue to be energized on its primary side, posing an electrical hazard to personnel working on the transformer. If the transformer faults, the fault current will flow through the main breaker and potentially damage it, resulting in a loss of power to the entire facility. The unmarked main breaker poses a safety risk because it is not clear which terminals are line and load, increasing the likelihood of accidental contact with live conductors. Flag for review

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