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| Subject - run circuit to shed | |
| POPCHUCK52 | I need to run a elec circuit to a shed, do i need a disconnet in shed or can i just use junction box to separate a 12/3 circuit. one leg for lights and one for outlets? |
| cal_sparky | Charlie, You need a disconnect, BUT you can use a 20A, two-pole switch. I do it this way for detached garages--use a 4" square metal box, with a raised cover for switch. Gives me plenty of room to split the circuits off. Cliff |
| David Hyatt | If I am reading 225.32 2002 NEC Ex 1 correctly, it allows you to have the disconnect to be located at the supply on the same primises. |
| cal_sparky | David, I suggest that you take a closer look at the Code, specifically the exception. For those who do not have a copy of the Code handy, that exception reads: "For installations under single management, where documented safe switching procedures are established and maintained for disconnection, and where the installation is monitored by qualified individuals, the disconnecting means shall be allowed to be located elsewhere on the premises." Based on the original question, I assumed that this was on residential property. I wouldn't expect to find too many commercial facility operators asking for advice on running a couple of circuits to a shed. And even if so, not too many facilities meet the definition of "an installation monitored by qualified individuals", and fewer still would have have "documented safe switching procedures" for a shed! POPCHUCK, you need a disconnect. Put in a DPST switch. Of course, DON'T switch the neutral. This disconnect requirement is there primarily for firefighter safety. Those guys (and gals) have to be able to cut power to a building right quick. I'll grant you that it isn't going to present a real threat to firefighters if they can't find a disconnect on a shed, especially if it happens to be within sight of the main panel. But because the question was asked, I feel obligated to provide the most accurate interpretation possible. Cliff |
| David Hyatt | Maybe I didn't understand the ex:1 clearly, I assumed single managment was residential. And qualified persons was the installer. Live and learn, I guess. |
| Scott Vickrey | Charlie may or may not meet the requirements of section 225.32 exception 1. He never specified where this is shed is being installed (residential or not). The code that specifies the location of the disconnecting means (2002 NEC Section 225.32) has surely left many scratching their head. So much so that many local authorities have ammended or altered it in some way. Ask your local inspector or a local electrician. They should know what is expected in your area. In an effort to clarify this there is a proposal to revise section 225.32 in the 2005 NEC. This proposal will add the term "within sight" and other revisions to said section. More info: Google 225.32 NEC |
| AMPMWIRED | THE CODE DOES NOT REQUIRE YOU TO INSTALL A DISCONNECT ON A SEPARATE STUCTURE, ON THE SAME PARCEL BEING FEED BY THE SAME MAIN PANEL.IF THIS WERE THE CASE EVERY DETACHED GARAGE,SHED,GUEST HOUSE ECT. WOULD REQUIRE DISCONNECTS.FOR SAFETY PURPOSES A SMALL SUB-PANEL WOULD BE A GOOD IDEA. |
| cal_sparky | ampwire, Take a look at the 2004 NEC, Article 225, Outside Branch Circuits and Feeders, Section 225.31 and 225.32. It says that each building or structure shall have a disconnecting means, and it shall be installed on or in the building served. There are four exceptions, and none applies to a residential shed, at least in my opinion and that of my AHJ. And yes, it does mean that a detached garage or shed subject to the 2004 Code (as locally adopted) must have a disconnect. That means new construction. My AHJ is enforcing this, and all it means for a 20 amp multiwire circuit is a 4S box and a snap switch. Best regards, Cliff |
| POPCHUCK52 | many thanks to all, it is a redidential shed by the way! thanks again...charlie |