Manufactured home AFCI Requirement or not

[Fred B]

Just went today to get some measurements for the service wire on a brand new from factory double wide, and found a puzzling site. Not a single AFCI. Are manufactured home exempt from AFCI requirements?

 

[augie47]

Manufactured (mobile) homes fall under HUD for inspections. Last I heard HUD was using '08 NEC.

 

[Fred B]

Just came across this on another source:

HUD 3280.801 (b) In addition to the requirements of
this part and Part II of Article 550 of
the National Electrical Code (NFPA
No. 70–2005), the applicable portions of
other Articles of the National Electrical
Code must be followed for electrical
installations in manufactured
homes. The use of arc-fault breakers
under Articles 210.12(A) and (B), 440.65,
and 550.25(A) and (B) of the National
Electrical Code, NFPA No. 70–2005 is
not required. However, if arc-fault
breakers are provided, such use must
be in accordance with the National
Electrical Code, NFPA No. 70–2005.
Wherever the requirements of this
standard differ from the National Electrical
Code, these standards apply.

This whole thing is so stupid, "if they are provided they must be there, but if they are not provided then they don't."

 

[Buck Parrish]

That really sounds like some lobbyist may have been involved.

That's a building that could really use them, if any.

 

[Fred B]

That's a building that could really use them, too

My thought exactly, have you ever seen one burn, most are too far gone before fire dept can even get there.

 

[ramsy]

Just came across this on another source:
HUD 3280.801

what is the publication date of that reference?

 

[Fred B]

what is the publication date of that reference?

Reference e-CFR Jan 14, 2021,
note: that particular section was last modified apr 2006

eCFR :: 24 CFR Part 3280 -- Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards

www.ecfr.gov

 

[ramsy]

Excellent reference, thank you.

Remind me never to purchase a manufactured home built to HUD standards.

 

[Fred B]

My understanding is if we make any modifications they have to be to the NEC though. Only the mfg can build to HUD code exemptions.

 

[ramsy]

My understanding is if we make any modifications they have to be to the NEC though. Only the mfg can build to HUD code exemptions.

Perhaps these home manufacture's can't warranty AFCI's on NEC 334.30 wiring methods, using the self-contained insulation piercing stab-on connectors, albeit a listed means.

When replacing similar devices with NEC 300.15 & 406.4(D)(4) methods, with devices using wire terminals, my invoices are documented as "Fire-Hazard Abatement".

 

[kwired]

Plus you can't fill a 20/40 panel with tandems if you need all those AFCI's in it.

 

[ramsy]

See device yolk screwed directly to drywall, listed without fire box, per NEC 334.30.

While AFCI breakers are best, replacement code 406.4(D) allows this AF/GF outlet at 1st opening, after a wall box is installed per NEC 300.15.

The AFCI function of these outlet devices are also tripping on upstream events, revealing burn damaged breakers & bus stabs on different circuits.

Once able to determine when AFCI breakers are tripping on defective upstream POCO equipment, then your ready to climb into one of Coppersmith's service trucks.

 

[retirede]

That's a building that could really use them, if any.

So an AFCI will now magically work just because it’s installed in a manufactured home?

 

[ramsy]

So an AFCI will now magically work just because it’s installed in a manufactured home?

Not necessarily.

That kitchen counter AF/GF device replacement held that time, without requiring other device replacements, re-wiring, or fuse-box repairs.

If client ever refused to pay after I explained whats required, then existing crap would have to stay in the walls. They don't like doing that.

 

[Coppersmith]

Once able to determine when AFCI breakers are tripping on defective upstream POCO equipment, then your ready to climb into one of Coppersmith's service trucks.

That would be wonderful.