Minimum Panel Height

[rookie4now]

We set a sub panel on a job for a client that had very specific ideas where he wanted it. It was a reasonably suitable space in the hall that would be behind a decorative door, the problem (or potential problem) was that it was only about 28" off the floor to the bottom of the panel. While not my 1st choice, I reviewed 110.26 and didn't see a problem from a code point of view. The inspector today said that while there isn't a minimum height for the panel, there is a minimum height for the breakers of 36" to the center of the handle. he referenced 240.24. However when I read 240.24 it does not give a minimum height, it states "Overcurrent devices shall be readily accessible unless one of the following applies:" I am looking at the 2002 NEC, did it perhaps change in 2005?

Also, I know there is a minimum working height exception for residential remodel, if there is in fact a minimum heigh can someone reference a code section so I can see if there is an exception.

Thanks

 

[raider1]

There is no minimum height for a panel (Excluding a mobile home). 240.24 does not include a minimum heigh of 36".

Chris

 

[al hildenbrand]

I agree with Chris. There's a maximum height, but no minimum.

Was there a problem with the installation, in the inspector's opinion?

 

[Jim W in Tampa]

Where do they find inspectors like this ? Day labor 1 day ,inspector next. Go straight to his boss and make him look like what he is.

 

[vango]

How tall was this inspector?

 

[curt swartz]

I agree that there is no such code. If there was a whole bunch of switchgear installed in this country needs to be changed.

 

[480sparky]

I agree that there is no such code. If there was a whole bunch of switchgear installed in this country needs to be changed.

Not really.

But the floor guys may need to lower the floor a foot or two!

 

[Davids1964]

I once went into a house were the main panel was very low. Turns out the home owner was handicap. We will see alot more panels being low because of ADA laws. The main was also on the bottom.