"Robert11" wrote in message
. ..
Hello,

Will be replacing a quite old residential electrical service box with a
new 150 or 200 amp one in the near future.

Haven't spoken to any electricians yet, but before I do, would like to
gain a bit of knowledge as to
what is state of the art, etc., these days.

e.g.,

a. What brand(s) do I want to ask for, and I guess what's more important,
which to stay away from ?

b. Square D still the preferred one to go with ?
If so, do they have a "good," "better," "best" kind of lineup ?
Which should I specify ? Much of a price difference between ?

c. Not sure what bells and whistles to ask about.
I guess I want GFE breakers somewhere.
Where should they be put in ?
Any potential problem in having one in the service box if there is already
one or two GFE's on outlets in the circuit ?

d. What about "Arc-Fault" breakers, which I've heard about.
What are they, and where would I want them ?

e. Is a ground rod required these days for the Gnd/Neutral, per Code ?
Presently, there doesn't seem to be one.

Much thanks; appreciate it.

Bob
I suppose Square D, QO is still regarded as the best, although IMO all the
majors are pretty decent. I never recommend a 150 amp service as the labor
cost is the same as for a 200 amp and the material cost is negligible. I
agree with Pete c that I'd want a "full size" 40 circuit panel, which you
won't get with a 150 amp service, at least with a built in main breaker. I
wouldn't install any GFCI breakers unless you're replacing ones in the
current panel. I think it makes more sense to use receptacles where needed.
New code requires AFCI protection for virtually everything in bedrooms, but
unless the bedrooms were wired for AFCI protection, you could be opening up
a can of worms, especially if multiwire branch circuits were used and your
existing wiring should be grandfatherd. I wouldn't worry about ground rods
and related stuff as that's why you have an inspector check the job, he'll
do what's required in your area.