Alin Dragulin/FogStock/Thinkstock
Ecmweb 7980 Mro Art 225 Item 1 5 16
Ecmweb 7980 Mro Art 225 Item 1 5 16
Ecmweb 7980 Mro Art 225 Item 1 5 16
Ecmweb 7980 Mro Art 225 Item 1 5 16
Ecmweb 7980 Mro Art 225 Item 1 5 16

Outside Branch Circuits and Feeders, Part 1

Jan. 5, 2016
What if you find conflicting requirements between Art. 225 and the one from Table 225.3 that applies to your particular special case?

Article 225 of the 2014 NEC provides requirements for running branch circuits outdoors, on or between structures (including buildings and poles). Pay special attention to Table 225.3. It lists specific cases of equipment and conductors, showing which other Articles apply. If you’re installing outdoor receptacles at a marina, you need to also apply Art. 555.

But what if you find conflicting requirements between Art. 225 and the one from Table 225.3 that applies to your particular special case?

The way the NEC is arranged solves this dilemma. Chapters 1 through 4 apply to all installations except as amended by the relevant Article(s) from the remaining Chapters. So in the case of a conflict, you apply the requirements from the Article identified in Table 225.3.

While you still determine ampacity per Art. 310, ampacity isn’t the only factor in determining the minimum size of conductors run outdoors. If they run overhead, they can’t be smaller than 10 AWG copper or 8 AWG aluminum for spans up to 50 ft (up to 1,000V, without a messenger wire) [225.6]. Longer spans require 8 AWG copper or 6 AWG aluminum.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Fiberglass Electrical Conduit Chemical Resistance Chart

This information is provided solely as a guide since it is impossible to anticipate all individual site conditions. For specific applications which are not covered in this guide...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.