The load center game

Billy_Bob said:

I like the idea of a 200 amp 40 slot panel. It does not cost much more for a panel with more slots.

Then I also like having a whole house surge protector. These come in a double slot form which goes in the place of a double breaker. They might not be availible for some panels.

Then there have been "counterfeit" breakers manufactured in China which have caused problems. Watch out for that.

Might want to call around and see who makes a white panel, then go from there. Try Siemens, GE, Square D, Cutler-Hammer, etc.

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KAdams4458 said:

I'll do a little hunting to see if anyone besides GE makes a white version, and I'll see which ones have the option of accepting surge protection.

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Mikey said:

I'd stick with Square D and paint it. If this violates any NEC rules, mea culpa.

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KAdams4458 said:

If I could, I'd like to solicit the opinions of the most experienced among you - You know who you are.

I think the load center in the house is hopeless do to corrosion, and since it doesn't have much in the way of space for circuits. Besides, it would be nice if the cover was some colour other than utility grey/rust, since it will be right in the midst of living space. A few years ago, I installed a GE Powermark Gold that was white, because it's what I was given to work with. At least it was nice looking, and I can't say that I had any complaints with it. After all, anything was an improvement over the flaming Federal Pacific that it replaced. Any other 200A white ones out there that would be highly recommended?

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Bill Arden said:

Don't sub panels need 4 wires going to them since you are not supposed to bond ground and neutral again after the main panel.

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Billy_Bob said:

Correct. This is a safety thing in case the neutral comes lose (not uncommon).

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