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Thursday, June 9, 2016

Question:

Hi. What is the proper procedure when service equipment gets flooded from broken water/sprinkler pipes?

Kevin McKeown

A

Answer:

Hey Kevin thanks for your question. The water from sprinkler piping is usually not as clean looking as it appears in the movies and can contain contaminants. Even clean water can cause problems for equipment and conductors that are not suitable for wet locations. The integrity of electrical equipment must be ensured as stated in 110.12(B) and deteriorating effects need to be considered as stated in 110.11.

NEMA published a guide for evaluating water damaged equipment that is available for a free download at

www.nema.org/stds/water-damaged.cfm#download

Manufacturers can also provide guidance regarding their specific equipment.

In general circuit breakers, fuses, and wiring methods that are not suitable for wet locations such as NM cable need to be replaced. If there is any doubt about the equipment, consider replacing it.

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CHARLIE TROUT: Charles M. Trout, better known as Charlie, was a nationally known NEC® expert and author. He served on several NEC® technical committees and is past chairman of CMP-12. In 2006 Charlie was awarded the prestigious Coggeshall Award for outstanding contributions to the electrical contracting industry, codes and standards development, and technical training. Even though Charlie passed away in October of 2015, his work continues in spirit. NECA continues to maintain this question forum for its many subscribers in memory and recognition of all his significant contributions to making the NEC what it is today.

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