Alaska Home Inspectors Forum

[Patrick Hartshorn]

Ok, does anyone know where I can find a definition of the rules for electrical panels (breaker box), presently I was taught that the panel needs to be "visible and accessible with 3 feet in front and across the face"? I never did get an answer if that 3 feet across the face means 1.5 feet each side or 3 feet each side? 6 feet seems excessive, I have been using the 1.5 foot theory!

My two questions are;

1. - A shallow cabinet constructed over the electrical panel to "pretty" it up? Opening the panel exposes the entire box and even makes it possible to remove the panel cover, but it is not "visible and accessible" unless you know it is behind there? Is this considered an acceptable practice?

2. - Painting the panel to match the wall, effectively "camouflaging" it? The panel is still somewhat visible when standing there but from a distance it is hard to pick out? Is this considered an acceptable practice?

Thanks for any help.

Pat.

[Carol Perkins]

Yes you may 'disguise' the electrical distribution panel. The cabinet door must be flat to the wall and be large enough the the panel door will fully open to access the breakers. No shelves or storage allowed. The cabinet cover must also be large enough to allow removal of the panel cover for working or be able to removed easily. Many manufactured homes are done this way.

As far as painting the only proabition is no paint on the inside of the cover or on the inside dead front.

Pictures, posters, and wall hangings are also allowed as long as they are easily removed (just try to stop an interior decorator from hiding that ugly thing).

The clear working space does not have to be centered on the panel, as long as the panel is within 30 inches wide and 6.5 feet head room and 3 feet in front. 110.26.

[Patrick Hartshorn]

Thank you very much, I called those concerned and let them know.

I appreciate the responce and this site, it may be slow on here from time to time, but that also may be a good thing as everyone hopefully is too busy to post.

Pat.