ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Distance of unfused Service Entrance Conductors.

I think back to bach through a masonry wall is OK but I started getting pretty picky when to goes beyond that.
At the Ca D Zan job we negotiated GRC running along the wall/floor joint and a dam poured solid with concrete to get the required cover.

Around here we just put in the outside disco on almost every service, then we do not have to deal with the length issue. The only time we do not use a disco is in a back to back install.

And there is no problem with outside disconnects? I always thought there would be pranksters going around turning them off so people would be late for work etc.

Havent heard of any problems yet, but I am sure it has happened. I built my house 13 years ago with an outside disco on it and havent had a problem.

Outside disconnects have not been a problem, in my experience. Please note there is no ban against locking such disconnects in the 'on' position.

After all, the fire department has bolt cutters

I do, however, know of one instance where the homeowner put a nail into the concealed, unprotected service cable.

I replaced a service cable last year due to a phone company employee drilling a hole thru it while installing internet service. The cable was run along the inside of the rim joist, and he drilled right thru the 2 hot conductors, needless to say the installers drill bit was toast. The installer was fine, just a bit shaken up, thank god for double insulated tools!