overloaded ? 60amp Circuit breaker melts wire

[CyberGus]

I'd be very hesitant to use his service anymore. Also, I'd ask for a refund.

Melted wire after a visit from an "electrician" is NOT good.

When internet randos have better information than a licensed contractor... find a new contractor

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[HaulingAss]

When internet randos have better information than a licensed contractor... find a new contractor

Agreed. The only reason to invite him back is so he can see the error of his ways, so he doesn't keep doing the same thing to other unsuspecting customers.

 

[chonnertruk]

It is incorrect to install 8AWG wire (max 40A) connected to a 50A breaker. In this configuration, the melting wire is the safety shut-off for the circuit breaker

Max voltage on #8 stranded THHN should be 40 amps loaded through a 50 amp breaker. My Tesla charger was wired to a 220V 50 amp breaker in a 200 amp panel. The panel size and existing load also determine performance. My guess (based on shared photos is your panel is fully loaded.

 

[RandyS]

I don't see how your 100 amp panel (while powering everything in your house) has the excess capacity to for a new EV charging load at that high rate. Sure, you can rationize that you charge at midnight when the panel is lightly loaded, but that's not how the NEC load calculations work.

Honestly, I would have someone do the load calculations and see if your panel is up to the task of handling all of the loads you have connected (and upgrade the panel if necessary if you don't have the capacity). Then re-do the EV charging circuit...

 

[Deleted member 17810]

I thought all those outgoing wires were supposed to be solid and not stranded?

 

[Feartoy]

Just be carful out there this just shows you how serious every job is. They reached out to me and they are going to make it right.
Thank you EVERYONE ! this is why I love this forum !

 

[CyberGus]

I thought all those outgoing wires were supposed to be solid and not stranded?

Solid-core wiring has higher current capacity. Stranded can still work, but solid is a better choice.

 

[countryboy]

Solid-core wiring has higher current capacity. Stranded can still work, but solid is a better choice.

Stranded 6awg is more flexible than 8awg solid and has more ampacity. Main difference is $ which for a short run shouldn't matter much.

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