[Ohio_Remodeler]

Could someone please tell me a good device to replace the service equipment in the picture with? Currently there is a main disconnect (Square D box on the right) which then goes to another panel. This panel supplies 200 amp service for a retail space, and 3 apartments each with 60 amp service.

I need the new service equipment to supply the retail space with 200-amps and 4 apartments each with 100 amp serivce.

[tkrussell]

Assuming there is one meter for all the tenants,

It can be as simple as a large 12"x12" wire trough with fusible disconnects on top, each sized to feed each store or apt, and a new main disconnect and metering as required

Or,

A 400 or 600 amp panel, size depending on calculated connected load, with a main breaker and a 200 amp and 4-100 amp branch breakers to each tenant

If separate metering is needed, can use a meter stack, each meter having the feeder breakers.

I figued if you wanted photos, that you pick a layout, too many photos to get for all of them.

Or, one of the better on line catalogs for a good popular electrical equipment with all the specs, can be found at www.squared.com.

I just noticed that the disconnect is Square D, ask them if they are looking for museum pieces.

Sorry I could not let that one go.

[Ohio_Remodeler]

It's a shame electric equipment doesn't age like wine, if it did, I would be sitting on a pretty good score.

There are 4 meters currently, as shown in this picture, but there will be 5 meters on the new setup. I am moving the 4 apartment service panels from the basement into the individual units. The retail service panel will remain in the basement.

I would like the meters to remain in the basement and to continue using the meters that are currently there (plus the one I must purchase). The diagram shows how I would like it setup. Which 600 amp panel and main disconnect should I get?

[tkrussell]

The local inspector, or certainly, the electric utility, should require those A-Based meters to be replaced with ones that don't need the open exposed wiring.

Need to check with the utility for the type of equipment they want, ringed or ringless meter sockets, many require lever bypass for commercial accounts, etc.

The location of the meters will be up to the utility also. If outdoors is not practical for some reason, they will allow the meters indoors. Many utilities even use radio signals builtin to the new digital meters for those difficult to access.

Don't guess on the main switch and service entrance size, need connected load calculations done to be sure what size entrance is needed. May even need an 800 Amp, because of the connected load, or to allow capacity for future expansion, but only guessing until the calcs are done.

Since all the tenants are metered separately, a main distribution panel is not usually allowed or necessary, only a main switch that then feeds the indivdual meters.

If there will only be 5 tenants, can get away without a main switch, and use the Six Switch Rule, using 5 separate main switches, with room for one more tenant main.

Any need for a Owner's meter and panel for common areas?

This brochure from Square D is one method.

You really should check with the utility to see what they require and to see what your options are.

[Ohio_Remodeler]

I will contact the local utility to get answers to the questions you have put forth. Thanks for your help, you obviously know what you're doing. I'll let you know what they say.