What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: A Switchboard Heater?

April 11, 2024

Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Hint: A switchboard heater?

I’m not sure who thought it was a good idea to install a section of forced hot water baseboard heating on top of this switchboard, but I certainly hope I’m not in this room if that heater springs a leak!

Section 110.26(E) requires switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, motor control centers, and all service equipment to be located in dedicated spaces and protected from physical damage. Section 110.26(E)(1)(a) prohibits foreign systems, such as the baseboard heater, or other piping, ducts, leak protection apparatus, or other equipment foreign to the electrical installation from being installed in the space directly above this switchboard to a height of 6 ft above the switchboard or to the ceiling, whichever is lower.

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.