Wiring – Move neutrals to subpanel or leave them on main

neutralsubpanelwiring

I have a 150A Square D QO panel that is full and won't allow for tandem circuits. I'm going to take out the bottom 2 breakers and replace them with a 100a breaker to feed a subpanel via 4AWG copper wire. When I move the 20 amp circuits from the main to the subpanel, do I need to move the neutral wires as well, or can I leave them on the neutral bus in the main panel? Seems like its all the same if I left them alone, but not sure if there is a reason to move them too.

Best Answer

I think that is covered in NEC 300.3(B), All Conductors of the same circuit...shall be contained in the same raceway, auxiliary gutter, cable tray...

The small portion of raceway where the neutral or hot nipples between panels would break the rule.