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Thursday, May 12, 2016
Question:
Mr. Trout,
I have recently been attacked on my code knowledge by a very aggressive HVAC contractor. He states that his outdoor A/C unit can be placed in front of my disconnect because the code states clearly in 440.14 it simply needs to be within sight and readily accessible. My argument to him was readily accessible means not behind the unit, I should not have to lean over the unit or have it pinned in a 2’ area behind it. Now on his behalf does this mean it has to have 3 feet of clearance or just enough room to pull out the fuse/non fuse block? He shows me article 440.14 and I argue article 110.26. Can you settle this Hatfield and Mecoy feud, Thank you sir.
Sincerely, Ross E. Payne
A
Answer:
Hey Ross thanks for your question. Stick to your code knowledge, you're the Master Electrician not the HVAC contractor. The provisions in 440.14 apply but they do not remove the rule in 110.26. When troubleshooting or placing the AC unit in an electrical safe working condition as required by 130.2 of NFPA 70E voltage testing will likely be done at the disconnecting means. I believe the working space in 110.26 is necessary but understand that some AHJ's only require it if the disconnecting means contains overcurrent protection.