Replies

1. 
   bake_ | Oct 30, 2001 06:59am | #1

   *
   Should be 1 size smaller which is 2/0, how many amps is your meter base/panel main breaker rated for?

1. 
   d_j_k | Oct 30, 2001 07:02am | #2

   *Opps forgot to mention that..it will be a 200 amp service.Thanks,DJ

1. 
   Bob_Walker | Oct 30, 2001 01:02pm | #3

   *2/0 is what I learned, but for some reason in my area they're using 3/0 cu for 200 amp services. I'm not sure why."run copper from meter socket , 28' to circuit breaker box"Remember that there has to be a disconnect and overload protection within reasonable distance of the meter and where the service enters the home.Say you want to put the box on an inside garage wall, and run the service from the meter, through the wall, across the garage to the panel.You need a disconnect and main breaker inside the wall where the 2/0 enters. (Don't forget, this makes your main distro panel a subpanel and it has to be wired accordingly, with separated neutrals and grounds bake to the naim disconnect panel.)This an area of the NEC open to some interpretation; talk to your local inspector types.Also, this is a fairly basic question. Consider whether you might be getting in over your head. (As a home inspector, main panel wiring problems are one of the two leading sources of major problems I see.)

1. 
   Bill_Hartmann | Oct 30, 2001 04:38pm | #4

   *You should size it by the size of YOUR meter/pannel.The utility company does not have to, and often doesn't, meet NEC code.

1. 
   xJohn_Sprung | Oct 30, 2001 09:24pm | #5

   *Utility service drops that are hanging out in the open air can dissipate a lot more heat than can conductors in conduit. Therefore, the utilities can safely use lighter gauges in this application. IIRC, NEC also allows slightly lighter gauges between the weatherhead and the meter than in other applications.-- J.S.

2. 
   Alan_Kim | Oct 30, 2001 11:33pm | #6

   *For the 200-amp service service entrance cable, between the meter and main disconnect outside and to the service panel inside --two 3/0 for the hots, 2/0 for neutral and I can't remember the gauge bare copper for the ground, which was also used for the three ground rods spaced 6' apart.

3. 
   Dave_Richeson | Oct 31, 2001 02:28am | #7

   *Bill, utilities lost thier exemption from NEC in 1996, except for power generating and distribution facilities. Anything outside those two areas now has to meet code in most locales.

2. 
   d_j_k | Oct 31, 2001 02:28am | #8

   *
   Utility is bringing up 4/0 aluminum to meter socket at house.

   I want to run copper from meter socket , 28' to circuit breaker box.

   What is the copper size equivalent of 4/0 aluminum?

   thanks,
   DJ