Difference between Main Lug and Main Breaker Panel

Hoot01 · #1 Jan 21, 2007, 09:54 AM

What is the difference between a Main Breaker Panel and a Main Lug Panel and can either be used in new residential construction.

dozerdog · Jan 21, 2007, 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hoot01

What is the difference between a Main Breaker Panel and a Main Lug Panel and can either be used in new residential construction.

In a main breaker, the line wires coming from the meter can are connected to a main breaker to disconnect the power to all the other breakers in it. A main lug panel has the line wires going to lugs in the panel and no common breaker to disconnect the power to the individual breakers. In a main lug panel you need to use a separate Disconnect.

Hoot01 · Jan 21, 2007, 02:34 PM

Thanks to both of you for the info.

Hoot01 · Jan 21, 2007, 02:37 PM

Just one more question on this. Do some electricians install both? We are showing a 200 amp breaker in the house and a 200 amp disconnect at the meter.

Electridan · Nov 19, 2009, 03:26 PM

In some cases the Authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) or inspector may require both

KUXJ · Nov 19, 2009, 04:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hoot01

Just one more question on this. Do some electricians install both? We are showing a 200 amp breaker in the house and a 200 amp disconnect at the meter.

Howdy Hoot01.
As I understand it, it can be a tremendous advantage to the local fire co. if they have to respond to a call.

Instead of having to enter a burning building to kill the power, all they have to do is throw the disconnect at the outside meter.



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