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Question

I have a 200a main, but the breakers below added together total 260a. Do I have to equal the main or do you recommend reducing a couple of circuits to make it equal?

Submitted: 716 days and 1 hours ago.
Category: Home Improvement
Value: $9
Status: CLOSED

Accepted Answer

Hi XXXXXXXX;

Although your breakers all together add up to over 200 amps there is no need to change anything. The makers of the NEC, and other codes that deal with electricity, did realise that there would be a buffer zone of sufficient size that a mains panel could be filled with breakers that total more than the panel is rated at. Now mind you this is not recommended but it is quietly allowed.

Why? Well you gotta figure that not every appliance in the home is going to be in use at the same time. If the washer is on the refrigerator won't be. If the microwave is on then the ShopSmith in the work shop is not. If Little Cindy is blow drying her dolls hair, then Mikey isnt playing nintendo , etc.

Additionally all the wires installed in the home are rated to handle the load of the breaker plus a buffer zone usually around 15 to 25%. This is what keeps our homes from becoming BBQ fuel on a regular basis.

If it would make you feel more comfortable you can eliminate complete circuits. But never drop or raise the amperage of an installed breaker. This could cause injury, or even death.

If this has answered your question click the green ACCEPT button.

If you have other concerns in this matter please reply here in this thread.

After you click ACCEPT. Please leave feedback.

Best regards; The Home Smithy



Edited by The Home Smithy on 12/8/2007 at 2:08 AM

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Expert: The Home Smithy
Pos. Feedback: 98.4 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 12/8/2007

Jack of all trades Master of a few.

#1 Home Improvement Expert. Over 30 years experience in construction, and home repairs

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