controlnovice
Electrical
- Jul 28, 2004
- 976
I've used the NEC for a good 20 years of my career, but the last 10-12 years or so, I really haven't had the need. My use of it was for industry, not residential, so I really don't know everything that's required for residential.
A few months ago, I wanted to help my father replace his push-o-matic breaker box in his 50 yr old home. It's a 100a panel...it's not the manufacturer that was recalled 10-15 years ago. I didn't have time to attempt a go myself, so we called a few contractors for estimates. Due to the code (outside of Chicago), it would have cost over $3500! and more if the utility wire needed changed. He's in a 1200sqft home.
All the contractors said it was because of the code requirements in that county:
How many others aren't doing upgrades for this reason? Or making a 'change in kind' type of replacement without a permit?
How many of these code requirements are at the request or insistence of manufacturers and/or contractors? For example, I know in the city of Chicago, all residential wiring must be in conduit. This is only because the union wanted it to be able to charge more. No wonder the average price of homes is now over $400k!
A few months ago, I wanted to help my father replace his push-o-matic breaker box in his 50 yr old home. It's a 100a panel...it's not the manufacturer that was recalled 10-15 years ago. I didn't have time to attempt a go myself, so we called a few contractors for estimates. Due to the code (outside of Chicago), it would have cost over $3500! and more if the utility wire needed changed. He's in a 1200sqft home.
All the contractors said it was because of the code requirements in that county:
- Must upgrade to 200a panel.
- May need to upgrade the 100ft of underground cable and conduit from the transformer
- Need a disconnect on the outside.
- Need to test the ground and may need another ground rod a certain distance away.
- Need to 'fix' the common neutrals by using double pole breakers where needed (not too big a deal)
- Need arc fault breakers.
- All new construction requires a 240V outlet in garage for car charger (Not needed in his case, but interesting)
How many others aren't doing upgrades for this reason? Or making a 'change in kind' type of replacement without a permit?
How many of these code requirements are at the request or insistence of manufacturers and/or contractors? For example, I know in the city of Chicago, all residential wiring must be in conduit. This is only because the union wanted it to be able to charge more. No wonder the average price of homes is now over $400k!
