I Changed My Home Wiring Have I Violated Any Electrical Codes?
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I upgraded some appliance circuits, have I violated any codes? What to do If You Forgot to Get a Permit or Inspection for Your Electrical Project. |
Home Electrical Projects Should be Done with a Permit
Electrical Question: I upgraded some appliance circuits and moved the dishwasher, have I violated any codes?
- I have an older home, build in the mid 70’s. It has only 2 – 20a breakers feeding the kitchen.
- The Kitchen had a hard wired dishwasher that is not on the same circuit as the garbage disposer as the dishwasher is not next to the sink, it is part of a dishwasher/stove/overhead oven all in one combo unit.
- Of course the oven/stove are on a separate 240 volt circuit but the dishwasher is on one of the 2 – 20a 120v circuits.
- I have since done away with the combo unit and replaced it with a conventional stove, and put a new dishwasher next to the sink where it should be.
- Now I’ve hard wired the dishwasher off the same feed where the garbage disposer switch is located.
- So I guess the question is, because there were only two existing breakers feeding the kitchen and the only thing I’ve done was upgrade the appliances and moved the dishwasher, Have I violated any codes?
Background: Joe, a Homeowner from Alexandria, Virginia.
Additional Comments: This website is a great help.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Joe.
Electrical Codes are Essential for Electrical Wiring Projects
What to do If You Forgot to Get a Permit or Inspection for Your Electrical Project
- This is a loaded question because I cannot see exactly the methods you have used to install the electrical wiring changes.
- This is why every home electrical project should be done through a permit from your local building department.
- This insures that it will be inspected.
- The local building authority can be a great resource to guide you with your project.
- This is where my motto comes in: Do it right the first time, you’ll sleep better at night!
Why Electrical Codes are Important
- Electrical Codes serve as a guide to ensure that electrical wiring is installed properly, and the inspections make sure the parts and methods conform to the standards that apply.
- Basic Electrical Code information may be found on this website for you to browse through and consider, but this will never take the place of getting a permit and inspection.
- It is advisable that you contact your local building department and have them come out and inspect what has been done, and they will answer any questions You may have.
- Important: Electrical Codes and Inspections are for Your Safety and Protection
- One Final Note about Building Permits:
- If a home is ever sold then most of the time work that has been done without a permit is identified and this can cause a lot of problems.
- One Final Note about Building Permits:
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