Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: UBG, Location: So Cal
Asked on: Monday, August 4, 2025 at 4:10 pm EDT
Answered on: Monday, August 4, 2025 at 4:10 pm EDT
Question: I think the answer to this could come down to "whatever the AHJ wants", and I've made that call and I am waiting for them to respond...but I'm throwing it out here too.Customer has 200A service for their single family home. They'd like to add an EVC at a 40A or 48A capacity, but they don't have the ampacity in that service to add it with the existing loads.A big chunk of that existing load is a steam shower that they never use. Removing the steam shower would free up enough ampacity on the service to allow the addition of the EVC. What would you consider sufficient "removal" of the steam load to be, in order to satisfy the NEC?They'd like flexibility for their future resale of the property...maybe a potential buyer likes steam, and doesn't need an EVC...well, here you go, we'll take our EVC with us, and reconnect the steam generator for you, and voila. For practical purposes, they'll never use the steam, so it's as if it didn't exist...but "we promise" is not an allowed approach in the Code.So, for load calculation purposes, what would you all say needs to be done in order to "remove" the steam generator from the service and allow the new EVC load to be installed?Remove the ungrounded conductors from the breaker, leave capped off and taped/labeled in panel, leave steam unit as is?Same as above, but also remove conductors from lugs in steam unit, cap and label in the wiring compartment?Remove the steam unit itself, but conductors can stay, capped and labeled in panel & jbox?Remove conductors completely from conduit, but steam unit can stay as is?Remove everything, as if it was never there?Thanks for reading and responding
This is a great question, and you're right, the AHJ has the final say. However, here's my NEC-informed take, aiming for the most defensible position
The Goal:
Reduce the calculated load on the service entrance so the EVC can be added while meeting NEC requirements (primarily Article 220).
The Challenge
The NEC doesn't explicitly define "removal" for load calculation purposes. It's more about permanently removing the load from the electrical system. Your customer's desire for easy re-installation complicates things.
My Recommendation (and Why)
Remove the steam unit itself, and the branch circuit conductors completely from the conduit, terminating at the panel. This approach provides a strong argument for removal from the load calculation. Here's why this option is the best. Physical Disconnect
Removing the appliance breaks the connection between it and the electrical system. This is a concrete step, making it clear the load is no longer connected.
Clear Visibility
Removing the wiring is the biggest visual signal to future owners and inspectors that the load no longer exists.
Code Compliance
This aligns best with the intent of load calculations, which is to accurately reflect the actual connected load. A future owner wanting to add the steam unit back must install a new branch circuit and steam generator, requiring a permit and inspection.
Documentation
Document the removal with photos (before and after) and keep them with the home's electrical records. This provides proof to future inspectors.
Why the other options are less ideal
Disconnecting at the Breaker/Unit Only
While this removes the immediate load, it doesn't prevent someone from easily reconnecting it. An inspector could argue the capacity is still there and the load should be calculated.*
Leaving Wires in Conduit
This is a "future proofing" tactic which is really a waste, especially with the potential for damage to the disconnected circuit.
Important Considerations and Justifications to present to AHJ
NEC 220.3(C) Continuous Loads. If the steam shower is considered a continuous load (operated for 3 hours or more at a time), it must be calculated at 125%. Removing it removes 125% of the appliance's nameplate rating from the calculation, improving the load balance.2. Safety
Clearly label the now-unused conduit with a tag indicating "Former Steam Shower Circuit - Circuit Removed - Do Not Use."3.
Transparency
Be upfront with the AHJ about the customer's desire for potential re-installation. Explain that the proposed removal meets code, while still allowing for future flexibility with proper permitting and inspection.4.
Alternative Approaches
If the AHJ is resistant, ask if they would accept a legally binding agreement (recorded with the property) stating that the steam shower will not be reconnected without an updated load calculation and necessary service upgrade. This is highly unlikely, but shows you're willing to work with them.
In Summary:
Removing the steam generator and the entire circuit is the most defensible approach. While it might not perfectly align with your customer's desire for instant re-installation, it prioritizes NEC compliance and minimizes potential future issues. Clear documentation and communication with the AHJ are crucial. Flag for review