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Code Q&A: Panelboard Mounting Positions

Nov. 23, 2021

Test your NEC knowledge.

Mike Holt

Courtesy of www.MikeHolt.com

Based on the 2020 NEC.

Q. What is the Code rule for the installation of panelboards in a face-up position?

See answer below.

A. Panelboards are not permitted to be installed in the face-up position [Sec. 408.43]

The 2020 Code Making Panel stated this new limitation does not prohibit “mounting the panelboard in a horizontal face-down position.” However, Sec. 240.33 requires enclosures for overcurrent devices be installed in the vertical position. If a panelboard is installed horizontally the overcurrent devices must have the “up” position be the “ON” position [Sec. 240.81].

These materials are provided to us by Mike Holt Enterprises in Leesburg, Fla. To view Code training materials offered by this company, visit www.mikeholt.com/code.

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.