COMMUNITY FORUM

04:44AM | 04/21/08

Member Since: 04/08/08
54 lifetime posts

6' rule

I've got a friend who wants to install a subpanel in a laundry room. It's been a while since I looked at an NEC so I was wondering what are today's clearance restrictions between a panel/subpanel and a water source such as a sink/tub/washing machine. I seem to remember a 6' clearance being mandatory, but that was a while ago.

Peace

househelper

05:33AM | 04/21/08

Member Since: 03/31/05
265 lifetime posts

There is no rule in the NEC about proximity to a sink or washer. You do need to have a clear space 30" wide and 36" deep for the panel to reside in. It does not have to be centered in that 30" space.

sailor86

08:04AM | 04/21/08

Member Since: 04/08/08
54 lifetime posts

Then it must be an old rule or a local one because I could almost swear there was such a rule some time back. (I haven't roped houses in 10 years.)

Peace

TimBonham

10:56AM | 04/21/08

Member Since: 01/09/07
197 lifetime posts

There IS a code rule prohibiting panels/subpanels inside a bathroom. That may be what you are remembering.

Your local inspector will decide whether a laundry room is similar enough for that rule to apply. Some inspectors can be quite stringent, even arbitrary.

sailor86

05:32AM | 04/22/08

Member Since: 04/08/08
54 lifetime posts

I contacted my local code enforcement office and like you said, no panels in the bathroom but beyond that, only working clearances apply.

Peace