for Cold Climate Housing and much more

Last Updated: , Created: Saturday, October 27th, 2001

Does an electrical panel have to be behind closed doors?

No.

That was simple wasn't it?

Actually the contrary is a bit the case -- electrical panels should never be blocked or made inaccessible.

Olive from Calgary even showed us the beautiful use of Oak cabinets to hide the panel while leaving the panel still accessible. She even keeps all her important electrical, plumbing and heating calling cards on the inside of this door where they will not get lost.

The only code considerations for the placement of the electrical panel is to not place it in a humid environment, like a laundry room which could accelerate corrosion on the contacts. Nor in an explosive environment, like a wood working shop or a coal bin.

As well, it should be located as close as possible to where the electricity comes into the house because the wire from the pole to the mains box is not protected by fuses or circuit breakers.

Click here for information on the LEGALITY OF DIY ELECTRICAL WORK.


Keywords: Layout, Circuit Breakers, Fuse, Electrical

Article 1389