Water Heater Wiring Upgrade
#1
01-30-23, 06:17 PM
Water Heater Wiring Upgrade
One of our home water heaters is located in the Main Bedroom closet behind a wood panel. It is 50 gallons and is connected to a flush mounted 240 vac 30 amp receptacle using a heavy appliance pigtail like one would use on an electric dryer. The breaker box, mounted outdoors is 25 amps. I was reading that this install was restricted 25 years ago. I want to upgrade it to meet code. One easy solution is to do it like the water heater in the garage. Flexible metal conduit with 10 awg hardwired. Does code require a disconnect if the breaker is not within sight of the appliance? Looking for some advice on the compliant method to get rid of the plug and cord.
#2
01-30-23, 06:53 PM
Group Moderator
You are correct........... NEC 422.16(A)
You would need a non fused disconnect switch at the water heater for servicing.
Most likely it will be a 60A non fused pullout which would be fine.
60A non fused pullout disconnect
It's more cost effective than using a 30A disconnect with fuses.
You would need a non fused disconnect switch at the water heater for servicing.
Most likely it will be a 60A non fused pullout which would be fine.
60A non fused pullout disconnect
It's more cost effective than using a 30A disconnect with fuses.
Last edited by PJmax; 01-31-23 at 07:41 PM. Reason: corrected code reference
#3
01-31-23, 08:00 AM
OT: A disconnect for an electric water heater in addition to the panel breaker has other good use. It helps prevent accidental turning on its power during its servicing by someone else touching the breaker box for another reason, That in turn could cause burn out of the water heater elements if the heater was drained out partially or completely..
#4
01-31-23, 05:52 PM
Group Moderator
A disconnect is required for any electric appliance. A circuit breaker is considered a disconnect if it is within sight of the appliance. A cord and plug and receptacle are also considered a disconnect.
#5
01-31-23, 05:57 PM
Group Moderator
A cord and plug and receptacle are also considered a disconnect.
CasualJoe
voted this post useful.
