[wiremanhelp]

Trying to wrap my head around this one...

When calc voltage drop, should I always use the available load (rated panel) or just use my calc load - what I'm gonna install. I've gotten into with electrical engineers before.

What do you guys/girls think?

 

[ilikepez]

You base the conductor size on the load not the panel rating. You can feed a 200 amp panel with 14 awg as long as it has overcurrent protection suitable for that conductor.

 

[nitro71]

Depends if you are future proofing something. In a bid I wouldn't future proof anything unless it's part of the bid. If the customer is paying for future proofing then I'd give it to them.

 

[MDShunk]

If you size to calculated load only, that may have dramatic effects on certain loads when motor loads start. Just something to keep in mind. Calculated load plus 225% of largest motor load might give better service.