Code Quiz: Location of Overcurrent Protection Devices

Based on the 2020 NEC.

Question: Where in the circuit should overcurrent protection be located?

 See answer below.

Answer: Source of supply

Explanation: Section 240.21 states, “Overcurrent protection shall be provided in each ungrounded circuit conductor and shall be located at the point where the conductors receive their supply.” Section 240.21(A) through (H) detail several exceptions to this requirement based on specific circumstances.

Lupacchino is a senior design engineer with Gaylor Electric, Inc. in Noblesville, Ind. and serves as an alternate on NEC Code-Making Panel No. 3. He is currently licensed in more than 80 jurisdictions. He can be reached at [email protected].