A variety of questions

[tonype]

1. How does one determine if wire density in a main panel is excessive, especially when the number of breakers is OK - is it just a "qualitatively" assessment? Been wrestling with this for a while. I've seen worse than in the photo (though question came to mind when seeing this).

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a352/TonyPE/IMGP9201.jpg

2. Does a mounted electric heater need to have a disconnect visible and accessible from the unit (this is one that has a dial thermostat on the side)? Also, doesn't the wire have to be supported within 12" of the connections?

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a352/TonyPE/IMGP9198.jpg

3. Any rules on "tightness" of wire install?

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a352/TonyPE/IMGP9255.jpg

4. Does the back of a panel have to be covered (see photo).

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a352/TonyPE/IMGP9206.jpg

 

[don_resqcapt19]

1) the code permits a panel wire gutter fill of 40%. For a typical panel you can put 300+ #12 in the side wire gutter without exceeding 40%.
2) The dial thermostat may be the disconnect if it has an off position and breaks all of the ungrounded conductors. The general rule is that the disconnect be within sight of the heater, but remote, lockable disconnects are permitted.
3) It does not appear that the cables are supported.
4) I don't know of any rule that would require a cover over the back surface of the panel enclosure.