Water lines above service panel

[Stevenfyeager]

Water lines are not permitted directly above service panels. They can be 4” out in front of the panel for example, I understand, but not directly above the panel. But what about drain pipes? I have an existing panel I have to replace and there’s a copper 2 inch drain line right above the panel. Are drain lines permitted but pressured waterlines not ?
Is there a distinction between pressure waterlines and drain lines? Thanks!

 

[Rick 0920]

Is it within 6' above the panel? if yes, that is an NEC violation. I have done jobs where plumbing lines have been above my panels and the inspector required a drip deflection pate to be installed so if the pipe leaked, the water would not drip directly on the panel. As far as a distinction between the two, I don't know. But my reasoning would be that both of them could possibly leak so I would require the deflection plate.

 

[d0nut]

The dedicated space is also to give you room to get your conduits out of the panel, both during the initial installation and any future circuit adds. It isn't just for leak protection for the equipment which is why all items not related to the electrical installation are prohibited in the dedicated space.

 

[infinity]

But what about drain pipes? I have an existing panel I have to replace and there’s a copper 2 inch drain line right above the panel. Are drain lines permitted but pressured waterlines not ?
Is there a distinction between pressure waterlines and drain lines?

No there is no distinction between water and waste lines built into the dedicate space requirement. As long as the piping is not directly over the panel it is considered outside of the dedicated space and drip pans would not be required.