AIC Rating Cross Check from POCO

[brycenesbitt]

This sounds like something that could be handled at the local level as part of rehab codes.

Why would local be the right solution? Every location has older stock buildings here and there.

 

[jim dungar]

Why would local be the right solution? Every location has older stock buildings here and there.

And those locations may want the electrical systems upgraded. Just because something met code once doesn't mean it is still deemed acceptable.

 

[brycenesbitt]

And those locations may want the electrical systems upgraded. Just because something met code once doesn't mean it is still deemed acceptable.

And those owners given the choice may do nothing.
You can't touch it, you can only replace it, is certainly a code compliance strategy.

See an earlier thread about a bulletproof solid Bulldog disconnect that had a rusted clip.
No freaking way I'm replacing that workhorse of a disconnect, proven over decades of service, with some low bidder offshore built wimpy ass series rated new unit. That old Bulldog equipment is now repaired, repainted, and ready for decades of service -- longer than I expect to be working.

 

[ramsy]

In this case there are no internal subpanels or breakers : each apartment has a single #12 MWBC fed FPE breakers just under the meter.

If AHJ enforces 35k AIC, after considering all data presented, can feeder length be added between 35k AIC fused disconnect and the meters ?

This all works fine, there's no capacity issue.

There may be health & safety-code issues, running portable HVAC ext.cords down hallways to common-laundry rooms.

 

[brycenesbitt]

There may be health & safety-code issues, running portable HVAC ext.cords down hallways to common-laundry rooms.

Not likely in this building, since the common area only has a single 15 amp circuit, if I recall correctly .
Electrical code can't compensate for health and safety issues, no matter how hard it tries, in part because the real slumlords hire workers who literally can't read the code, on top of not reading it.

It may be hard for people who live in 4000 square foot houses to imagine, but efficiency apartments do just fine with two circuits total.
As long as the heat works -- and that can be an issue -- the owners typically prohibit space heaters. There's the occasional gripe that they can't run the microwave, toaster oven and hair dryer at the same time, but they learn and adapt. For the cheap rent, you know? Blow that up with extended safety improvements and rather than people with two circuit housing, you have the same people living in RVs', tents and shelters. Or worse.

Look up "cold water flat" for some of the history of setting the minimum bar for habitability, for the good and bad of it.

 

[ramsy]

slumlords hire workers who literally can't read the code, on top of not reading it

Not just a Southern California thing ?

As long as the heat works -- and that can be an issue -- the owners typically prohibit space heaters

Very interesting, thanks for sharing.

Looks like the Efficiency Apartment standard has fewer appliances than a studio, while Cold-Water Flats were gone by 1962.