60 amp meter, 100 amp fuse box

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1

Originally Posted By: rclayton
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I came across a 60 amp meter base. The fuse box was 100 amps. The heating system, water heater and stove were all gas. Should I recommend upgrading the meter anytime I come across this situation?

2

Originally Posted By: Steve Costa
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What size were the service conductors? #4 copper or #2 aluminum would be appropriate for 100 amp. service anything less would be undersized and should be reported. Allowing too much current to flow through the wires can cause excessive heat and possible fire.

3

Originally Posted By: pdickerson
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If there is a 100 amp main disconnect, all of the components up to and including the main panel should be rated for at least 100 amps. If this is not the case, you run the risk of overheating the undersized components. It sounds to me like the meter base needs upgrading.

4

Originally Posted By: rclayton
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The service conductor is a #2 aluminum. Thanks for the information.

5

Originally Posted By: gbeaumont
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Hi to all,


these questions come up a lot on the board, but for the benefit of those entering the profession, it is worth stating again that:

The Amperage of the service is limited to that of the lowest rated component.

So if the meter base is 60 amps
and the SEC's are #2AL = 100 amps
and the panel is rated for 100 amps

Then the supply should be reported as a 60 amp.

Regards

Gerry

--
Gerry Beaumont
NACHI Education Committee
e-mail : education@nachi.org
NACHI phone 484-429-5466

Inspection Depot Education
gbeaumont@inspectiondepot.com

"Education is a journey, not a destination"