[OSUChE]

Have an existing service to 1200 SF 3br/2bath 1975 residence:

ITE Model EQC5X12B 120/240 200A with 60A split, no main feed breaker.

I know this type of panel is out of date/code, however, can't spend the money right now. There are 6 tandem slots one of which is the 60A breaker for the lower bus. This home once had baseboard heat (now converted to natural gas) that utilized two 20A tandem slots above. In the remaining three tandems are; the range (40A), dryer (30A) and water heater (30A).

I planned to utilize the two abandoned baseboard slots for:

Bus 1
20A ref
15A furnace
Bus2
20A garage (should I ever need freezer)
15A smoke detectors

Does anyone have comments on this application other than "replace this panel?"

Thanks very much for your input!

[hfcarson]

OSUChE,
Out of date, yes likely...
Although, many states in the US have "rehabilitation" sub-codes or similar documents which may not require you to replace an existing service / panel...

If I understand what you're describing, your panel has (6) two-pole breakers in the top half that if you shut off will turn off the entire panel? If so, then the panel is still code compliant. It's called the six switch rule and it's maximum number of switches allowed to completely de-energize the service.

That may be more than needed, sorry I digress...

Anyway you propose to use the (4) slots that have been opened up when the baseboard heat was removed?
Doing this will increase the maximum number of operations to turn off the panel to (8). That would be a code violation. Why not consider a small, say 60 ampere sub-panel? It will keep you code compliant and will give you additional space for other things you haven't yet discovered!

But always.. be safe

[OSUChE]

@hfcarson:

Yes, I believe you're correct, and that would make 8 operations. Would it be compliant to two-pole the 15A and 20A? I'm guessing no since they serve different circuits?

If not, I will go with your suggestion and hit Home Depot up for a sub. Thanks for helping!

And indeed safe, safe, safe! I'm a chemical engineer with a Pulp Mill background in addition to all those G/C years. I understand the consequences of short-cutting safety around live line volt/amps! Thank you for mentioning it, easy to be complacent at home for certain! ;)

Rick