Re-Use of Federal Pacific Box

[tonype]

Saw this at a home inspection yesterday - other than the use of duct tape to cover the old breaker slots, is there anything prohibited or wrong with this installation?

Regards,
Tony Shupenko

 

[Pierre C Belarge]

This is a procedure that is performed all the time. As long as the box fill, grounding and other pertinent code requirements are met, I do not see a problem... of course other than the duct tape.

 

[infinity]

I agree with Pierre this is a common installation. The biggest potential problem is with the cover and the open slots as mentioned in the OP.

 

[Jim W in Tampa]

Screw the lid shut some way and i think its fine.Technically one could say its not listed for this use but really will work fine and is far from over filled.

 

[paul]

I don't even see a problem with the duct tape. It has a hinged door that closes the open spaces. There is no live, exposed parts that you can stick your fingers into. So where's the problem? I've installed Hoffman enclosers that you can open up with the twist of a latch and have access to all the wires inside. To me, this old panel offers a bit more protection than the Hoffman.

Just my 2? worth.

 

[ty]

The tape could stay or go, as long as the door is screwed shut.

 

[LarryFine]

Next time you have to use tape to cover an opening, try using it on both sides. That doubles the thickness and makes it more likely to stay. Real metal duct tape is much stronger and longer-lasting than plastic duct tape is.

 

[Minuteman]

Next time you have to use tape to cover an opening, try using it on both sides. That doubles the thickness and makes it more likely to stay. Real metal duct tape is much stronger and longer-lasting than plastic duct tape is.

I would be careful with the use of the metal duct tape, wouldn't want a HVAC guy to think somebody was doing his work.