You could show them the 2011 or 2014 NEC, both of which clarify this (rather than making a new rule), so the inspector might accept this rational. The numbers are a bit different now in the 2014 code (and there is an error in the referencing, the exception in 690.13 (A) points to 690.31 (F), where it’s actually in 690.31 (G)). But both 2011 and 2014 solve the circular reference issue with the 2008 code.
In 2008, the code says (690.14 C 1) a disconnect needs to be at the point of penetration, unless it follows the rule (690.31 E) where DC is installed in metallic conduit, and complies with the first rule (690.14) that requires the disconnect be at the point of penetration, unless it follows the rule (690.31 E)…… round and round we go. Common sense would seem to acknowledge that the exception allows you to locate the disconnect elsewhere, but we have dealt with a few inspectors in the area that feel like they want a disconnect anyway. I think it was a simple fix in those cases, we submitted an objection (with code references) in writing, and just put a disconnect in to close the permit. With Regards, Daniel Young, NABCEP Certified PV Installation ProfessionalTM: Cert #031508-90 From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Carl Adams Sent: Monday, January 04, 2016 10:59 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] Source Circuit Disconnect - 690.14 (C)(1) Fellow Wrenches, We recently failed an inspection on a new PV installation We are operating under the 2008 code I have attached a small sketch of our conduit routing to clarify things. Inspectors note post inspection ...provide a photovoltaic disconnecting means per 690.14 (C)(1) During his inspection the inspector was unhappy that we had entered the attic space with the DC source circuits, saying we should have run the conduit across the roof and kept it outside. Since we entered the building we would need to add a DC disconnect in the attic to meet code. My thought is that we fall under the exception listed (690.31(E)) since all source circuit internal to the dwelling are in metallic raceways. I'd like to hear other wrenches chime in on this. Our reason for routing things as we did was to keep the installation aesthetics first class and minimize unsightly conduit runs. Code section follows 690.14 Additional Provisions. Photovoltaic disconnecting means shall comply with 690.14(A) through (D).690.14 (C) Requirements for Disconnecting Means. Means shall be provided to disconnect all conductors in a building or other structure from the photovoltaic system conductors. (1) Location. The photovoltaic disconnecting means shall be installed at a readily accessible location either on the outside of a building or structure or inside nearest the point of entrance of the system conductors. Exception: Installations that comply with 690.31(E) shall be permitted to have the disconnecting means located remote from the point of entry of the system conductors. The photovoltaic system disconnecting means shall not be installed in bathrooms. 690.31 (E) reads as follows (E) Direct-Current Photovoltaic Source and Output Circuits Inside a Building. Where direct-current photovoltaic source or output circuits of a utility-interactive inverter from a building-integrated or other photovoltaic system are run inside a building or structure, they shall be contained in metal raceways, or metal enclosures, from the point of penetration of the surface of the building or structure to the first readily accessible disconnecting means. The disconnecting means shall comply with 690.14(A) through (D). With Regards Carl Adams, President SunRock Solar, LLC 513.290.9072 (cell) 513.766.6025 (office) _____ No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2015.0.6176 / Virus Database: 4489/11287 - Release Date: 12/30/15
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