Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: jaggedben, Location: Northern California
Asked on: Saturday, May 29, 2021 at 4:22 pm EDT
Answered on: Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 11:09 am EDT
Question: As I do more and more home energy storage along with solar I'm having to bone up more and more on my basic residential electrical knowledge.What I've been running into lately is relocating loads that don't have EGCs, e.g. older NM with no ground, sometimes K&T. I want to make sure I'm not missing any code requirements here. Generally the scenario is that we are transferring the home-run from the existing panel to a new (backup loads) panel. Sometimes the existing home run comes directly into the new panel. More often we are extending it with a j-box and new wiring to our new panel. Of course our extension wiring has a ground and we bond our metal boxes. We are basically never changing anything about the actual outlets. (Often we know little detail about where the outlets are or what they look like.)I'm aware that AFCI requirements may kick in if our extensions are over 6ft.Am I missing any GFCI requirements that kick in with these old wiring methods that lack EGCs? Does the code allow them to stay as-is?
GFCI Requirements
For the scenarios you described, there are no additional GFCI requirements beyond those that already apply to the existing wiring methods. The National Electrical Code (NEC) does not require retrofitting GFCIs to existing outlets that lack EGCs.
AFCIs Extension Wiring
If the extension wiring is over 6 feet, it is subject to AFCI protection. The NEC requires AFCIs for branch circuits that supply outlets or devices installed in dwelling units, except for certain exceptions (e.g., bathrooms, garages).
Existing Wiring
The NEC does not require AFCIs for existing wiring that lacks EGCs. However, if you are extending or modifying the existing wiring, you must follow the AFCI requirements for new wiring.
Other Code Requirements Bonding
You must bond all metal electrical boxes, regardless of the wiring method.
Grounding
When extending the home-run from the existing panel to the new panel, you must ensure that the new panel is properly grounded. If the existing home-run does not have an EGC, you may need to install a ground rod or connect to another grounding electrode system.
Best Practices
While it is not required by code, it is good practice to consider the following: Labeling
Label all outlets that are supplied by ungrounded wiring.
Upgrading
If feasible, consider upgrading the existing wiring to include EGCs, which will provide better protection against electrical faults.
Conclusion
In general, you are not missing any code requirements for GFCIs or AFCIs in the scenarios you described. However, it is important to follow good electrical practices and ensure proper grounding and bonding for all electrical installations. Flag for review