Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: williamsmithaud, Location: Lockport, IL
Asked on: Friday, April 29, 2011 at 10:04 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:47 am EDT
Question: I would appreciate some input (criticisms or suggestions) on the following project. I have extremely limited space to run wires on this job, and what little space I have is very difficult to get to. Here's the deal:I have a 200 amp FPE load center that that I will be eliminating and replacing with a new load center that will be relocated about 20 feet way in the basement below the existing FPE location. In order to save space, wire and a lot of labor costs I want to run a single service entrance neutral wire from the FPE neutral bus to the new load center neutral bus. I will then use the old FPE cabinet as a junction box to bring the two service entrance hots and all branch circuit hots down to the new load center. I will run a separate ground to the new load center.Again the space I have to run wires is making the job a very difficult one, so I have to find a way to minimize.
Criticisms
Not code compliant
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that a separate neutral wire be run for each hot wire. Running a single neutral wire for both hot wires is not compliant and could create safety hazards.
Potential for overloading
Using the old FPE cabinet as a junction box may lead to overloading the neutral wire. The neutral wire should be sized to carry the full load of all the hot wires connected to it, which may not be possible with the limited space available.
Difficulty in troubleshooting
Since all hot wires are running through the old FPE cabinet, troubleshooting any electrical issues could become more complex and time-consuming.
Suggestions
Consider a different wiring scheme
Explore alternative wiring methods that would allow you to run separate neutral wires for each hot wire without overloading the neutral. For example, you could use a subpanel in the old FPE cabinet, with separate neutrals running from the subpanel to the new load center.
Maximize space utilization
Utilize all available space for running wires. Consider using wire staples, raceways, or other methods to secure wires in narrow or difficult-to-reach areas.
Consider wireless technology
Explore the use of wireless technology, such as smart switches and outlets, to reduce the need for physical wiring. This could potentially free up space for other essential wires.*
Consult with a qualified electrician: It's highly recommended to consult with a qualified electrician to assess the situation, provide alternative solutions, and ensure that the installation is compliant with all electrical codes and safety standards. Flag for review