Networks in Resy

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fauxfly

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Hi guys



Can I get you opinions on something I'm seeing, Is it better to use networks in resy work. What I mean is pulling a 12/3 W G to two rooms (sharing the nuetral) I realize this is legal but I'd like to here some of the opinions out there about this. I'm also realize with the cost of wire these days, it might be the only way to go. Any thouoghts out there.


Thanks

Steve
 
Depends on the rooms, like whether AFCI and/or GFCI protection is required. Electrically, it's more efficient, but can lead to over-voltage issues if the neutral pathway has integrity issues. The neutral cannot depend on device terminals.
 
But an AFCI requirement will kick your butt in costs, assuming you can even find a two pole AFCI. Do not do this for bedrooms. If the AFCI requirement goes total as in the 2008 proposal, then existing or new MWBC's will be a major headache.
 
We use 14/2/2 w/ground for bedrooms, each circuit has its own neutral for afci breakers. I would think it is also made in 12 gauge, though I haven't used it.
 
AFCI and GFCI issue aside, I'm just not comfortable with multiwire circuits in residential. IMHO, there is too much of a chance that a HO or other unqualified person will get their mitts into the panel. When they do there's a good chance that the wiring to the breakers will be moved onto the wrong phase/leg in the panel. Then we've got a problem.

I can honestly say I've never installed a multiwire in a residence and never will. Just my 2cents.
 
yanici said:
AFCI and GFCI issue aside, I'm just not comfortable with multiwire circuits in residential. IMHO, there is too much of a chance that a HO or other unqualified person will get their mitts into the panel. When they do there's a good chance that the wiring to the breakers will be moved onto the wrong phase/leg in the panel. Then we've got a problem.

I can honestly say I've never installed a multiwire in a residence and never will. Just my 2cents.
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Actually then they've got a problem. Could blow up their new $3000 plasma TV. In which I would say I don't care. Should have hired a pro to begin with. If MWBC's were so dangerous than the NEC wouldn't allow them. Just my 2 cents.
 
yanici said:
I can honestly say I've never installed a multiwire in a residence and never will. Just my 2cents.
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I can honestly say I use a multiwire branch circuit when the opportunity presents itself.

To each their own. :)
 
I make liberal use of multi wire branch conductors, except for AFCI circuits.

I never make my installation decisions based on what a DIY or jackleg handyman might do in the future. They can screw up anything I install, not just multiwire branch circuits.

Experience has shown me that an open utility neutral presents 10 times more issues to the homewoner than the neitral of a multiwire branch circuit ever will.
 
Woah! I know you guys like your multiwire circuits, but you can't tell me you haven't seen problems caused by them. IMHO they have their place and a home is not one of them.
 
First understand I have no itention of changing your mind, it's your choice how you work. :)

yanici said:
Woah! I know you guys like your multiwire circuits, but you can't tell me you haven't seen problems caused by them.
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Of course I have seen problems with MWBCs, just like I have seen problems with two wire circuits, 3 and 4 way switches, feeders and services.

But that does not mean I will stop installing any of them.
 
The only problems I've observed from network branch circuits is when unknowledgeable people have fussed with them. That's almost a non-problem to me. I put that in the "just deserts" catagory.
 
yeh right, I use multiwire circuits all the time.... they are the least of my worries when it comes to DIY messing with stuff... Labor is labor... and MBC's are labor saving.... I have NEVER had a trouble call for a MBC....
 
Put me down in the "anywhere convenient" category. Generally, it only came down to dishwashers/disposals in houses, for me.

In commercial, I've found that it looks a little odd when it isn't a MWBC. ;)
 
georgestolz said:
In commercial, I've found that it looks a little odd when it isn't a MWBC. ;)
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Peter D was giving me a hard time last Friday when I had him run 3 two wire circuits to the same location.
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It was going to be a network but than we found the panel was 120/240. At that point it was just easer to go all two wire.
 
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