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    CNY's Avatar
    CNY Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
    New Member
     
    #1

    Nov 27, 2006, 12:48 PM
    electrical subpanel in fire wall... is it OK?
    I asked this in the electrical section but was refferd here...

    I am in the process of building a 14x18' additon and a 24x30' garage (the addition is between the new garage and existing house).

    My existing electrical panel (200 Amp), while having plenty of spaces for all of the new breakers I will need, I have decided to install a new subpanel in the garage as my main panel is at the other end of the house.

    I would like to install a recessed subpanel in the garage in the common wall between the garage and additon. I would also like to install it such that I can add/change circuits in the future with a removable section of plywood or sheetrock.

    Is this allowed by code since it will be in a "firewall"?

    I live in Central NY where I believe we have adopted the IRC.

    If I am not mistaken this IS allowed by IRC, but NOT BOCA.

    Thanks
    skiberger's Avatar
    skiberger Posts: 562, Reputation: 41
    Senior Member
     
    #2

    Nov 27, 2006, 07:53 PM
    I couldn't find anything in my IRC book pertaining to your question.
    If you use a plywood "door" over the opening you may have to cover the plywood with 1/2" drywall to meet code.
    If all else fails, contact your local code official. Townships were given the option to amand parts of the code.
    CNY's Avatar
    CNY Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
    New Member
     
    #3

    Dec 14, 2006, 06:17 AM
    I found some info in my "code check" ref guide to the IRC/UBC


    IRC UBC
    Electrical panel {not} OK in garage side of common wall n/a {709.7X)

    Based on this, I think I am OK.

    skiberger, As you mentioned I will cover the plywood panel with drywall.

    ... on the same note I am a little confused regarding the drywall thickness required

    according to "code check" - IRC

    Min. 1/2in. gyp board on garage side of walls common to house.
    I thought I had to use 5/8in.?

    Door to house rated 20-minute or 1 3/8in. solid core
    I thought it had to be rated 90-minute and self closing which would require a steel door with steel jambs?

    I will verify these concerns with my codes official but I would like to sound as thou I know what I am talking about when I do.

    Thanks in advance for any input.

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