What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: A Great Flamingo Imitation

Nov. 14, 2024

Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

Hint: A great flamingo imitation.

This box and raceway remind me of a flamingo standing on one leg as I have often seen them do. From what I have read, flamingos stand on one leg to conserve heat and energy. But when it comes to supporting boxes with raceways, two raceways are better than one. In fact, when it comes to this type of installation, Sec. 314.23(F) requires the use of two or more conduits threaded wrenchtight into the enclosure. Each conduit must then be secured within 18 inches of the enclosure. There are two exceptions for Sec. 314.23(F) allowing one conduit to support an enclosure, but neither of those exceptions are applicable to this installation. The cover is an “extra duty” type and complies with Sec. 406.9(B)(1) but the GFCI receptacle is not a weather-resistant type as required by that same Section.

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.