[Bruce Meisinger]

I have a 125 amp 24 circuit FPE box that needs to be changed.In my scouting the home centers, I came up with a Square D, QO box ( I like the idea of copper bus) the 200amp, 30/40 unit will fix the spot of the existing FPE unit. By moving the new box up higher on the wall ( in the basement) the circuit breakers will be in the same place, ( in other words, the wires should reach). I called the power company, they said the underground wiring was 4 0T aluminum. The meter and socket are both rated for 200 amps. Will have to check the jumper between the meter socket and the main breakers, but will have them increased if needed by an electrician. I don't need a larger service, but I do need more circuits, maybe it will help with the lights dimming too. So as long as I was doing the work, why not maximize the current too? ( FYI the 150amp box, was 4 inches taller than the 200amp. A better fit with 200amp box?? )
Question one, in Omaha Nebraska, is it legal to do this work myself ( I do own and live here) I have replaced or redid a lot of wiring.
Question two, the house was built in 1972, what if anything do I need to do about ground fault and arc fault circuits, do they have to be in the breaker box? Or the rooms ( i.e GFIi)
Question three, do I need permits and inspections, since the is essentially a repair job?

Thank You. Bruce

[tkrussell]

Reading this:
http://www.electrical.state.ne.us/homeowner.pdf

Will explain whether you are allowed to do you own work in Nebraska.

This will also answer your last question, this is not a repair and permits and inspection will be required.


GFI will be required for any outlet in kitchen counter, bathroom, garage, unfinished basement, and outdoors. This can be breaker or receptacle.

Arc Fault are only available as breaker style, as far as I know, at the moment.

Any inspector will require GFI protection installed. With Arc Fault , they may be a bit more loose on this and not require AFCI if new circuits are not being installed in the areas requiring AFCI, which is most areas not requiring GFI. Best to check with the inspector on this.

The lights blinking may not be eliminated just because you have a new panel or service installed. They may blink because of a motor load on a lighting circuit, such as a refrigerator on a circuit with the kitchen lights, almost always causes the lights to flicker. So more circuits may be needed to separate loads.