Hot Water Heaters Disconnect Switch

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jeffro10 said:
By code, do I need to install a local disconnect switch for a 240v Electric Hot Water Heater?
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OK, since you're new here, I'll let you in on The Electricians' Biggest Secret: You don't need to heat hot water. :grin:
Anyway, welcome to the forum!
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Welcome to the forum.:)

An electric water heater would be an appliance. Part III of Article 422 gives us the requirements for disconnecting means for appliances.

I agree with dcspector, most likely you can use 422.31(B) and use a breaker lock as the disconnecting means.

Chris
 
OK. You got me. Sorry I mis-spoke.

Some townships in NJ are making the plumber install a local disconnect when replacing the water heater. Why should a disconnect be installed if a breaker lock will suffice?
 
Are they specifically prohibiting the use of a breaker lock or are they just stating that a disconnecting means is required?

Chris
 
I was traveling around installing the local disconnects until i discovered 422.31.B. What do you do, leave the breaker lock installed permanatly or have the plumber carry them on his truck? Is the purpose of a disconnecting means for the plumber installing the new unit or the homeowner after the plumber leaves?
 
If you've got a local code, unless we know where you are and someone here knows those codes, we won't be able to help you much.
 
What do you do, leave the breaker lock installed permanatly
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You need to leave the provisions for adding the lock on the breaker on the panel. Here is what the last sentence of 422.31(B) states:

The provision for locking or adding a lock to the disconnecting means shall be installed on or at the switch or circuit breaker used as the disconnecting means and shall remain in place with or without the lock installed.
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My answer is based on the 2008 NEC.

Chris
 
jeffro10 said:
OK. You got me. Sorry I mis-spoke.

Some townships in NJ are making the plumber install a local disconnect when replacing the water heater. Why should a disconnect be installed if a breaker lock will suffice?
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A breaker lock is sufficient according to the NEC. New Jersey has no local amendments but they do often have misinterpretation. :rolleyes:

They should require a disconnect or a breaker locking device.
 
Absolutley! I agree that every township in NJ is completely different. I told the plumber just to call the local inspector before he does the project to see exactly what is required.
 
If the plumber is hiring an electrician to install the disconnect I wouldn't complain about not using a breaker lock.
 
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