User: Seven-Delta-FortyOne, Location: Humboldt
Asked on: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 4:55 pm EDT
Answered on: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 5:05 pm EDT
Question: Looking at 550.10(I)2 2020 NEC/2022 California Electrical CodeTechnically this would be a feeder, as the meter is on a pole a few hundred feet away with a disconnect.Job I’m looking at is a home standby generator install. Here is a pic of how the feeder comes into the home underneath. Is that gap standard practice?Behind the I beam, not visible in the pic, is a 2” pvc conduit down through the floor. 550.10 states there must be provision for attaching a junction box, but doesn’t say a box is required. Is this standard connection details for a manufactured home?I need to intercept the feeder and reroute to the ATS, and I’m looking for the best spot, and also trying to find out if that will get called on inspection.
Okay, let's break down your questions about the feeder installation to the manufactured home, the relevant NEC/CEC code sections, and your options for adding the ATS.
Understanding the Situation Feeder vs. Service
You're right. Because the meter and disconnect are on the pole, the wiring from the pole to the house is a feeder, not a service. This is an important distinction for code application.
550.10(I)2 Specifics
This section deals with feeder conductors running under manufactured homes. Let's unpack its key requirements.
Analyzing the Installation1. The Gap
Is it Standard? No, that gap is not standard practice, and I would say it's likely a code violation. Why? While 550.10(I)2 does not specifically say it cant be there, it needs to be protected from physical damage. The gap allows for direct exposure to the environment, insects, and potential physical damage. California Specifics
CEC is typically very strict about proper conduit support and protection from physical damage.
Potential Inspection Issue
Yes, this is highly likely to be flagged in an inspection.2.
2" PVC Conduit Through the Floor
Junction Box Requirement Interpretation
550.10(I)(2) does require a junction box or other enclosure where the feeder enters the manufactured home. It states that there needs to be provisions to install a junction box, not that one is optional.
Why a Junction Box? To provide a transition point, strain relief, and connection point for the feeder conductors. It also allows for easier maintenance and inspection. Is This Standard for Manufactured Homes? No, the described setup without a junction box at the entry point isn't standard. Typically, you'd see a junction box mounted beneath the I-beam with the feeder conduit terminating into it. Potential Inspection Issue
Yes, this is very likely to be flagged.
Addressing Your Concerns and Finding the Best ATS Location
Here’s a recommended approach:1. Consult with the Inspector
Before doing anything, discuss the existing installation with the local electrical inspector. Explain your plan to add the ATS. This will help you understand their interpretation of the code and avoid potential issues down the line. Ask them specifically about the gap and the missing junction box. Get their feedback on the best way to bring the installation up to code.2.
Correct the Existing Installation
Address the Gap
You will need to close the gap and physically protect the feeder cable. One possible solution would be to run a length of conduit from the point of where the cable emerges from the ground, to where it makes its way through the floor. This will have to be properly secured and strapped.
Install a Junction Box
You must install a proper junction box beneath the I-beam, directly where the conduit enters the house. This is a critical step for code compliance and safety.3.
Determine the Optimal ATS Location
After the Junction Box (Recommended)
The most logical and code-compliant location for the ATS is immediately after the junction box that you will be installing. Mount the ATS close to the junction box. Run feeder conductors from the junction box into the ATS. Run feeder conductors from the ATS to the existing panel inside the house.
Accessibility and Working Space
Ensure the ATS location provides adequate working space as required by the NEC (typically 3 feet in front and adequate width/height).
Wiring Recommendations Proper Conductor Sizing
Verify the feeder conductors are properly sized for the load and the generator's output.
Grounding
Ensure proper grounding and bonding of the feeder, ATS, and generator. This is critical for safety.
Overcurrent Protection
Ensure the overcurrent protection (breakers or fuses) at the pole disconnect and at the generator output are appropriately sized.
Important Considerations
Manufacturer's Instructions
Always follow the ATS manufacturer's installation instructions.
Local Amendments
Be aware of any local amendments to the NEC/CEC. Your local jurisdiction may have stricter requirements.*
Licensed Electrician: I highly recommend that a licensed electrician perform this work. Electrical work on feeders and generators is complex and potentially dangerous.By taking these steps and working closely with the electrical inspector, you can ensure a safe, code-compliant, and reliable home standby generator installation. Flag for review