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Thread: main disconnect

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Oct 2010
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    Default main disconnect

    2 Electrical disconnect questions.

    1: 100 amp safety switch feed into the first point of service with a 200 amp main breaker.
    Is the main disconnect 100, or 200.
    A little rusty on what represents the first point of service amperage.
    main disconnect.JPG

    2: This is more for fans of flips.
    Obsolete Mechanical fuse switch.
    CSA Approved for HIGH VOLTAGE box and glass fuse switch...like new? I swear, not often mind you, but it's like new!
    Other than obsolete, what other verbiage can I use?

    mechanical low amo fuse switch.jpgmechanical fuse switch.JPG

    Thanks as always.

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  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
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    Default Re: main disconnect

    ROBERT,

    Main disconnect should be the first disconnect after the meter and where the neutral and ground are connected together (service equipment). Where did you see that? If I understand you correctly, the 100 amp breaker is in one panel (probably the service equipment) and the 200 amp is in a different panel with the distribution breakers. If I got it wrong, then disregard my comments.

    To continue the process, the amperage rating depends on three factors. The rating of the panel, the size of the conductors and the size of the main disconnect. Obviously, the panel rating should not be less than the main disconnect and the conductors should be appropriately sized.

    On the fused switch, I let folks know that the door can be opened by anyone and the live electrical is readily accessible. I defer on the potential safety issue. I also let folks know (verbally) that many insurance providers tend to have higher rates or will deny coverage if fuses are present.

    Department of Redundancy Department
    Supreme Emperor of Hyperbole
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  3. #3
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    Oct 2010
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    Default Re: main disconnect

    Thank's Gunner.

    Sorry for the edit.
    I see the feed into the breaker panel.

    Last edited by ROBERT YOUNG; 12-15-2015 at 10:32 AM.
    Robert Young's Montreal Home Inspection Services Inc.
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  4. #4
    Join Date
    Feb 2009
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    Default Re: main disconnect

    A fused disconnect for a furnace or other appliance - It serves the purpose and is probably fed by a breaker in the panel as well. I would not even mention it except to say it should be locked if easily accessible.

    100 amp fused service in an older house - they've installed a 200 amp breaker panel as an upgrade, but the service has not been upgraded, so it is still 100 amps. The 200 amp breaker serves only as a disconnect.

    If in doubt and the covers are not removable for whatever reason, check the size of conductors at the drip loop outside.

    I recall an installation like this where the fuses were actually only 60 amps, so you should always check the fuse size by the label on the cartridge. That time. because 60 amp was grossly undersized and uninsurable, my clients were able to get new 200 amp service installed by the sellers.

    Last edited by John Kogel; 12-15-2015 at 11:22 AM.
    John Kogel, RHI, BC HI Lic #47455
    www.allsafehome.ca

  5. #5
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    Default Re: main disconnect

    Thanks, John.
    Upon further review, and some sleep, the electrical appears well done.
    Not what I am accustomed to observing.


    No mention for further review by a qualified professional.

    Robert Young's Montreal Home Inspection Services Inc.
    Call (514) 489-1887 or (514) 441-3732
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