Subpanel minimum height Q.

[wire nut]

Stupid Question.

I'm installing a 100 amp subpanel behind "Knee Wall" on the third floor (attic conversion). There is excellent accesibility to the proposed subpanel area but the height drops from 5 feet to the floor within a few short feet. The best area to mount the subpanel would leave it only about 1.5 feet abouve the floor. Is this in violation of any NEC Code? If so, can anyone point out the code?

Thanks in advance.

John
New Jersey

 

[tom baker]

Re: Subpanel minimum height Q.

No minimum mounting height in the NEC that applies to your installation. However panelboards require a minimum headroom of 6' 6". See 110.26(E).

 

[a.wayne3@verizon.net]

Re: Subpanel minimum height Q.

I wouldn`t want to work on it live like that

 

[websparky]

Re: Subpanel minimum height Q.

NEC 2002 110.26 (E) Exception: In existing dwelling units, service equipment or panelboards that do not exceed 200 amperes shall be permitted in spaces where the headroom is less than 2.0 m (6? ft).

110.26(F)Dedicated Equipment Space.
(1) Indoor. Indoor installations shall comply with 110.26(F)(1)(a) through (d).
(a) Dedicated Electrical Space. The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment and extending from the floor to a height of 1.8 m (6 ft) above the equipment or to the structural ceiling, whichever is lower, shall be dedicated to the electrical installation. No piping, ducts, leak protection apparatus, or other equipment foreign to the electrical installation shall be located in this zone.