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    slimjim43's Avatar
    slimjim43 Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Jun 17, 2009, 01:46 PM
    Subpanel Neutral & Ground On Same Bar
    I just met with an electrician. I want to install a dedicated circuit in a sub panel. Since I live in an old multi-unit, the sub panel only has a neutral bar. I ask the electrician what are you going to do with the ground wire? The electrician replied, "Since the neutral bar is bonded, you can put the ground wire on the same bar with the neutral wire." The electrician said this was safe. Is this correct?
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    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #2

    Jun 18, 2009, 02:07 PM
    Since the neutral bar is bonded, the electrician thinks he has no other choice.

    I do not see the main breaker in the photo of this panel, and the neutral/ground can only be bonded toghter if the main breaker is in this panel.

    My guess is the neutral and ground have been bonded in error when first installed.

    The electrician should know enough to look at the entire system and be able to consult you on what you have.
    slimjim43's Avatar
    slimjim43 Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Jun 18, 2009, 02:32 PM

    This is multi-unit complex, main breaker is located outside. The electrician saw the main panel and said you can put ground and neutral on same bar. If only the neutral is bonded in the sub panel can you put ground and neutral on same bar? I understand this is allowed if it is the main panel.
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #4

    Jun 18, 2009, 03:08 PM
    I thought it would be an apartment house judging by the size panel.

    Your understanding is incorrect.

    The neutral and ground can only be connected together at the main breaker, or upstream from that breaker, but not downstream (AKA Load Side).

    If the neutral and ground is bonded together, this is incorrect by today's code, and it has been that way as long as I have been an electrician beginning in 1972, not including 4 years of school.

    Only the electrician on site can confirm or deny this condition.
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