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What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Which way is up?

May 3, 2018
Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Hint: Which way is up?

Scroll down to see the answer

This installer made a half-hearted attempt to make this enclosure weatherproof. The cover used is in fact weatherproof, but only when it’s installed correctly in the vertical position, not in the horizontal position as you see it here. Installing and using the cover in this position violates Sec. 110.3(B). This type of cover would also only be weatherproof when it is closed with nothing plugged into the receptacles. As can be seen in the photo, it appears that these receptacles will always be “in use”.

Section 406.9(B)(1) requires 15A and 20A, 125V and 250V rated receptacles to have an enclosure that is weatherproof even while the receptacles are being used. Any outlet box hoods must be listed and identified as “extra duty” type. A soaking downpour could cause some real problems for this installation since the rain and water would easily be able to contaminate and damage the electrical connections on the receptacles.

I can’t tell from the photo whether GFCI protection has been provided for this 125V receptacle as required in Sec. 210.8(A)(3). On closer examination, you may also notice a missing seal for the unused threaded opening on the right side of the box creating a violation of Sec. 110.12(A).

About the Author

Russ LeBlanc | Owner

Russ started in the electrical trade as an apprentice in 1985. He worked his way up to become a Journeyman Electrician and then eventually became a Master Electrician and Licensed Construction Supervisor. In 1999 Russ become an Electrical Instructor for The Peterson School of Engineering in Massachusetts where he developed his passion for teaching, and quickly became Department Head of Electrical Instruction. Russ has taught thousands of apprentices, electricians, engineers, inspectors, and other electrical professionals during his career as an instructor. He continues to provide electrical professionals with Electrical Code seminars, Arc-Flash Awareness training seminars and educational material through his LeBlanc Consulting Services in North Reading, MA whose specialty is educating electricians. He has been an active member of the NFPA Electrical Section and has authored hundreds of National Electrical Code proposals and comments which have become Code rules to improve the safety for the electrical industry. Russ is also an IAEI certified Electrical Inspector.

Please visit www.russleblanc.net for more information.

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