Water supply and panels - InspectionNews

Richard Roshak · #1 (**permalink**) 08-06-2008, 02:53 PM

Is there not a code that prohibits this type of installation? Yes, that shut off valve has previously leaked directly onto the panel.

Rich

Billy Stephens · #2 (**permalink**) 08-06-2008, 03:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Richard Roshak

Is there not a code that prohibits this type of installation? Yes, that shut off valve has previously leaked directly onto the panel.

Rich

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Richard,

If you can document this area as being considered a wet location due to a previous event
NEC 312.2A would require the enclosure to be rated as water tight.
or
IRC. 2003 E3304.8 Energized parts guarded against accidental contact. Approved enclosures shall guard energized parts that are operating at 50 volts or more against accidental contact.

( If it is likely to get wet again and someone touches the energized dead front it would be considered accidental contact. )

If I were trying to stretch a code around Stupid.

But

I think I would write it as a Safety Hazard ( Location has a history of water being directly discharged onto the Electrical Panel. ) bla. bla. relocate ----.

Michael Thomas · #3 (**permalink**) 08-06-2008, 04:03 PM

110.26(F)(1) (a) Dedicated Electrical Space. The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment and extending from the floor to a height of 1.8 m (6 ft) above the equipment or to the structural ceiling, whichever is lower, shall be dedicated to the electrical installation. No piping, ducts, leak protection apparatus, or other equipment foreign to the electrical installation shall be located in this zone.
Exception: Suspended ceilings with removable panels shall be permitted within the 1.8-m (6-ft) zone.
(b) Foreign Systems. The area above the dedicated space required by 110.26(F)(1)(a) shall be permitted to contain foreign systems, provided protection is installed to avoid damage to the electrical equipment from condensation, leaks, or breaks in such foreign systems.
(c) Sprinkler Protection. Sprinkler protection shall be permitted for the dedicated space where the piping complies with this section.
(d) Suspended Ceilings. A dropped, suspended, or similar ceiling that does not add strength to the building structure shall not be considered a structural ceiling.The piping is permitted within the electrical room but not within the dedicated equipment space directly above the electrical equipment. If leak protection is provided, the piping can be installed in the area above the dedicated equipment space.

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This applies to panelboards

Billy Stephens · #4 (**permalink**) 08-06-2008, 04:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael Thomas

110.26(F)(1) (a) Dedicated Electrical Space. The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment and extending from the floor to a height of 1.8 m (6 ft) above the equipment--
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This applies to panelboards

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Thanks Michael,

Quick flip through Code Check did not show your reference.

CD versions are on the wish list.

* added pdf reference to Michael's correct code post

Victor DaGraca · #5 (**permalink**) 08-06-2008, 05:34 PM

An invaluable tool on CD starting at $30 (used) to $54 new

Amazon.com: Used and New: 2006 International Residential Code on CD-ROM

Billy Stephens · #6 (**permalink**) 08-06-2008, 06:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Victor DaGraca

An invaluable tool on CD starting at $30 (used) to $54 new

Amazon.com: Used and New: 2006 International Residential Code on CD-ROM

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Thanks,

Ooo I bet it has lots of pictures.

I'll have to check into NEC as well.

Now if only they had a Grand Pappy's Day like ( Mothers Day ) only for old smelly Guy's I'd be Set.