Water heater and AHU connections

[Ragin Cajun]

I just came back from a "site observation" where the contractor screwed up and now he can't install the service panelboards as designed. (Residential care facility) I think I have that solved by creating an electrical closet in the next room. But that's another story!

While at the site, I noticed that he ran romex through a hold in the sheet rock to the water heater and AHU in the small closet where they are mounted. I am a bit rusty on residential installations, but that doesn't ring right. There are several other "issues", but this one I need help on.


What should he have done here?

 

[bphgravity]

Is concern with the exposed cables from the wall to the equipment? If so, it would not be unreasonable to have the cable sleeved in conduit.

 

[Ragin Cajun]

I need "clear" code reference(s) here. To me they need a box in the wall and bx, flex, etc. to the WH and AHU. I guess I have a brain block here for code references.

Thanks,

RC

 

[ron]

Take a look at 334.15 in the 2002 NEC to see if it would help.
Is there a conductor junction in the wall, that you want a box?

 

[hillbilly]

IMO, unless it's not permitted under 334.12 the installation sounds OK.
It needs to be secured within 12" of the connection to the appliances (334.30) 2005. This may be what you're looking for.
steve

 

[Ragin Cajun]

When I get back to my regular computer, I will post a picture showing the installation.

Thanks