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Thursday, June 13, 2019
Question:
Charlie,
I would like your expert opinion regarding cable protection in residential applications.
SE cable is allowed indoor or outdoor when it is attached to a building surface, say when connecting a meter base to a disconnect. What is your opinion when connecting to a pad mounted appliance, say an AC condenser or back-up generator. In these instances the cable (SE or other) is not supported in the space between the building and appliance and may be subject to mechanical damage from falling objects.
Dave
A
Answer:
Hey Dave thanks for your question. Type SE service entrance cable can be used for branch circuits or feeders as stated in 338.10(B). All conductors except the equipment grounding conductor must be insulated as stated in 338.10(B)(1) & (2). The cable must be installed in compliance with Part I of Article 225 and be supported following 334.30 as stated in 338.10(B)(4)(b). It is also not allowed where subject to physical damage unless protected in compliance with 230.50(B) as stated in 338.12(A)(1). With all of those rules it seems it might be easier to use a different wiring method but if you follow all of them it can be allowed.