Va. Updated codes

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frofro19

Senior Member
Location
VA.
Occupation
Master Electrician
I recently heard that Va. is requiring that all switches have to be dimmable and all exterior swich and receptacle boxes have to be the energy efficient type. Va. is on the 2020 code and has anyone else has any issues with any inspectors on this matter?
 
frofro19 said:
I recently heard that Va. is requiring that all switches have to be dimmable and all exterior swich and receptacle boxes have to be the energy efficient type. Va. is on the 2020 code and has anyone else has any issues with any inspectors on this matter?
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What is an energy efficient switch or receptacle?
 
I bet they are talking about sealing behind the receptacles and switches. They used to make energy efficient boxes.
 
So a standard box is less than $1.00 and the new ones will be $4.50. 100 boxes will no longer be $100 now they will cost you $460.00

That sucks
 
Dennis Alwon said:
So a standard box is less than $1.00 and the new ones will be $4.50. 100 boxes will no longer be $100 now they will cost you $460.00

That sucks
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Absolutely! Don't know if the inspectors are enforcing that here or not. Haven't spoken with my local inspector yet, but will soon. Just wondering if anyone else in VA. has had any dealings witj this.
 
Here is an AI post on Va law....I don't know how accurate it is but I suspect it is close

Here's how Virginia's energy code addresses electrical outlets:
  • Commercial Buildings: The 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and ASHRAE 90.1-2019, incorporated into the USBC with an effective date of January 18, 2024, include provisions for automatic receptacle controlin commercial buildings.
    • These controls mandate that at least 50% of the receptacles in enclosed offices, conference rooms, copy rooms, break rooms, classrooms, and individual workstations are controlled by devices that automatically turn off the power at specific times or based on occupancy detection.
    • Controlled receptacles must be clearly marked, and can be implemented as split receptacles or controlled duplexes located near uncontrolled receptacles.
  • Residential Buildings: The Virginia Residential Code, which aligns with the International Residential Code (IRC), requires air-sealing for electrical and communication boxes located within the building's thermal envelope. These boxes must meet NEMA OS 4 standards to limit air leakage, contributing to overall energy efficiency by preventing air infiltration and exfiltration.
  • Energy Efficiency Programs and Targets: Virginia's Clean Economy Act (VCEA), enacted in 2020, establishes energy savings requirements for electric utilities and encourages investments in energy efficiency programs. This legislation, while not directly mandating specific "energy-efficient outlets," promotes broader energy efficiency efforts that can encompass the use of controlled outlets and other energy-saving measures in homes and businesses.
In summary, while not enforcing specific "energy-efficient outlets" across the board, Virginia's building codes and energy efficiency regulations impact electrical outlets in the following ways:
  • Commercial buildings: Automatic receptacle controls are mandated in certain areas to reduce energy consumption.
  • Residential buildings: Air-sealed electrical boxes are required to enhance the thermal envelope and reduce energy loss.
  • Statewide initiatives: Energy efficiency programs and targets are in place to encourage broader energy savings, which may include the adoption of more efficient electrical components and practices.
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Dennis Alwon said:
Here is an AI post on Va law....I don't know how accurate it is but I suspect it is close
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Accurate enough, yes.

N1102.4.6 (R402.4.6) Electrical and Communication Outlet Boxes (Air-Sealed Boxes)​

Electrical and communication outlet boxes installed in the building thermal envelope shall be sealed to limit air leakage between conditioned and unconditioned spaces. Electrical and communication outlet boxes shall be tested in accordance with NEMA OS 4, Requirements for Air-Sealed Boxes for Electrical and Communication Applications, and shall have an air leakage rate of not greater than 2.0 cubic feet per minute (0.944 L/s) at a pressure differential of 1.57 psf (75 Pa). Electrical and communication outlet boxes shall be marked "NEMA OS 4" or "OS 4" in accordance with NEMA OS 4. Electrical and communication outlet boxes shall be installed per the manufacturer's instructions and with any supplied components required to achieve compliance with NEMA OS 4.
 
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