NEC rules on water pipes mext to the main service panel


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Old 07-01-14, 01:44 PM
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NEC rules on water pipes mext to the main service panel

I was replacing the pipes that run outdoors the garden hoes today and could not help but think how unwise the layout of the utility room is. The 2 main water lines in and water meter are about 18-24 inches away from 2x 100 amp service panels. It just does not seem logical to me.

Does anyone know what current NEC would say about the water service being so close and space required around a main panel?
 
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Old 07-01-14, 01:53 PM
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Not an issue as long as there is a 30" wide space in front of each panel. The 30" wide space does not need to be centered on the panel and can overlap into the other 30" space of the panel next to it. For example:

Two panels are installed in adjacent stud spaces. Studs are 16" O.C. 16+16=32" The 32" space is enough for both panels.

This based on the NEC. CEC may be different.
 
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Old 07-01-14, 02:41 PM
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Thank you Tolyn Ironhand,

The room is 48x46, the 2 panels are on the long side and the two water meters are mounted on the short side.
 
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Old 07-01-14, 03:57 PM
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I should also mention you need 36" of clear space (deep) in front of the panels
 
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Old 07-01-14, 05:15 PM
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Excellent, the room is a touch bigger than required, it has been fine for 68 years, I guess I should just leave well enough alone. I tend to over work stuff

Thank you,
 
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Old 07-01-14, 06:45 PM
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Excellent, the room is a touch bigger than required
Is it? You were given NEC requirements and you are in Canada. What does the CEC say about space around a panel?
 
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Old 07-01-14, 07:17 PM
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CasualJoe
Is it? You were given NEC requirements and you are in Canada. What does the CEC say about space around a panel?
Good point,
I always feel the CEC is just a tweaked NEC, but I will check with the city.
Thanks,
 
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Old 07-02-14, 05:13 PM
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I called the city today about this and 2 other questions,
head of permits for my district said, about maybe moving the wall by the service panel and what are the requirements, as well as a possible green roof for my daughter to have a veggie garden up there:

You don't need a permit for that stuff,
just get someone who knows what they are doing.

I swear on my grandmother's grave!
 
 

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