An inspector can bump absolutely anything. That doesn't mean they've correctly
interpreted the code or made a decision that increases electrical safety, only
that they have the authority to call it anyway they like.

What constitutes a long DC circuit in a building? Ten feet, fifty feet? What if
it's in RMC? What if it's in metallic flex conduit in a crawl space and droops
every four feet between joists? How about if it enters through a roof, into a
tight attic. A good AHJ will look at the big picture and make a decision based
on the code, their own experience in the trade, and common sense. Some will
simply cover their ass. They do bear a rather large burden of responsibility.

Dick Ratico
Solarwind Electric



 --- You wrote:
Regarding the DC disconnect, the 2008 Handbook 690.14C(1) comments, "These
requirements generally prohibit long runs of PV source and input circuits inside
a building before reaching the required PV disconnect. A short conductor run
through a wall at the point of first penetration to reach a disconnect mounted
inside the building is allowed." I think an inspector could bump a long DC
circuit through a building even if it was in conduit. What do you all think?

Joel Davidson
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Bill Brooks 
  To: 'RE-wrenches' 
  Sent: Friday, December 18, 2009 8:32 PM
  Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] 690.31E (through a building)


  Mark,

   

  The readily accessible disconnect at the inverter is all that is necessary
according to the code. There may be practical reasons for additional
disconnects, but if the system has no combiner box, or the combiner is at the
inverter, only the disconnect at the inverter is required.

   

  Bill.

   

  From: re-wrenches-bounces@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Mark Dickson
  Sent: Friday, December 18, 2009 3:25 PM
  To: 'RE-wrenches'
  Subject: [RE-wrenches] 690.31E (through a building)

   

  Hello there, 

  Due to a lot of concrete and asphalt, we are forced to run our PV source
circuits in through one exterior wall, through a crawl space and out through the
opposite exterior wall to our inverter and disconnect.  We will be using EMT and
will not be making any stops while inside the building.  We will however need to
place a couple of pull-boxes due the various required bends in excess of 360*. 
Will we be required to place a DC disconnect at the "first readily accessible"
point inside the building?

   

  Best regards,

   

  Mark Dickson,

  NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer T

  Oasis Montana Inc.

   
--- end of quote ---

