Not all panels have doors, it's just more attractive especially where the
panel is in a finished location. There are various opinions regarding
breaker manufacturers and half sized breakers but Square D is always
regarded as one of the best


"Robert11" wrote in message
...
Hello:

Will probably have a contractor put in a new electrical service box in the
near future, and have just started thinking about it a bit.

The present box is small physically, and also has only 100 amp service.

A larger box in physical dimensions can probably be put in the space that
is available.
(the box is recesed behind a wall with a door in the plasterboard)

But -

It will probably be impossible to have the usual metal door covering the
service box
in place, as I do not think there will be enough "swing room" for it to
open adequately.

Questions:

a. How necessary is this metal door ?
Is it mainly just to keep dust out ?

b. Is it a Code requirement to have one ?

c Any brands to stay away from ?
(Sq D still considered the one to go with ?)

Also: Is there any disadvantage to using those half-thickness circuit
breakers ?
Just as reliable, etc. ?

Thanks,
B.