Bubble Cover requirement for old work?

[mdshunk]

If I need to replace an outdoor receptacle (regular duplex) that is broken, I would certainly replace it with a GFCI receptacle. Since I am performing work on this device (and need a new cover anyway to accomomdate the GFCI), am I required to use the NEC2002 required bubble cover even though this is old work? If so, could I replace the broken duplex with another regular duplex, reinstall the original cover, and avoid the issue altogether? Thanks.

[Wgoodrich]

First you need to discover what your certain state calls current code rules. Some states are still controlled by a code version as far back from what I have heard year 1993 NEC Code version as adopted rules of law in that certain state. Do your research to discover which Code version is activve in your State.

Now once you know the above you should find that the rules in articles 80 and 90 to declare minor repair not being under the control of the NEC rules. Minor repair normally is limited to replacment of parts not changing the integrity of the branch circuit, feeder, or wiring system. Replacements of light fixtures, receptacles and switches would be considered as minor repair. When doing minor repair the Code version still in effect would be the Code that was current when the wiring was originally installed.

If you change the integrity of the wiring system such as running wires then you are no longer considered as existing and now comes under the current NEC version active at the time the wiring intergrity was changed.

If the part you change also changes the integrity of other parts of the house, example being changing a service would change the integrity of a sub panel design that was originally existing. If this happens or any other project you do that changes the integrity of teh wiring system, not the components of minor repair as mentioned above then the NEC current version would apply.

If all you are doing is changing a receptacle and cover it would be in my mind's eye minor repair leaving it controlled by the NEC rules active at the original time of installation not the current NEC rules.

Per the 2002 NEC rules a bubble shield is required on all outside weatherproof receptacles. A GFI protection is required on any outside receptacles installed in a dwelling setting. If agricultural then only an outside receptacle serving a watering trough. If a commercial setting other than agricultural such as schools, libraries or other types of public access buildings then no GFI protection is required but the bubble shield is still required if under rules of NEC 2002.

Hope this helps

Wg

[mdshunk]

Well, the work is being performed in PA, where there are no statewide electrical codes or even building codes. Codes are adopted and enforced at a local level. In my area, there are almost no building codes or electrical codes. Inspectors, where they exist, are hired by the contractor on a job by job basis. In my area, only two cities have electrical codes. This bubble cover question is in a township with no codes. The wiring system is knob-and-tube. All of the three-way switches use the "Carter system", so I'd date the installation to the 1920's. My first reaction would be to install the GFCI and the bubble cover, but people cry about cost, looks, etc. I was just trying to get a justafiable leg to stand on in order to upgrade the system. I never considered art 80, 90. These are sort of legalease sections oft overlooked. As you rightly point out, this is a minor repair, and I could put it back as original (but I wouldn't be proud of it).

[Wgoodrich]

Tell me what Township you are in concerning Penn. and I will try to tell you the Code version you are ruled by per that township. Many townships in Penn. has adopted both the IRC 2000 and the IEC 2000. Let me know your township. May help. You may also go to the following link yourself. It is the ICC link mapping of areas adopting the IRC as rules of building.

http://www.iccsafe.org/cs/adoptions/adoption.html

Hope this helps

Wg

[mdshunk]

Greene Township, Franklin County. I'm not on the list. PA was supposed to have statewide codes starting last April, but some snafu has that delayed indefinately (they couldn't decide who would enforce the codes and who would inspect). PA is really messed up for code enforcement unless you live in one of several dozen big cities who do their own.

[Unregistered]

MD,
According to a contact I have in Harrisburg the State of Pa. will
be implementing their new UCC sometime late in spring or early summer.
(probably hurt the small contractors and inspectors)
Ed

[Code Ace]

I could put it back as original (but I wouldn't be proud of it).

Nice to see there are people out there that actually give a hoot!

Even if it was at my own expense, being as meager as it is mind you, if I was to accept a job like this I would at the least change it to a GFCI receptacle. It is far more of a safety factor than the bubble cover. Of course we are still on the '99 here and I most likely wouldn't be required to bubble cover it.

As a side note: I haven't tried them yet, but Arlington has a new slim (only ½" deep) weatherproof in-use cover out.

[mdshunk]

I have heard rumors of low-profile bubble covers, but I understand that they are mostly for new work. Something about setting the box back. I'm still waiting for a "good" bubble cover that will withstand some use. I use the clear polycarbonate ones (for cost, saves gripes at bill time). Red Dot makes a pretty good metal one, but it's pricier. My main gripe is that plug caps on 12 gauge cords don't normally fit inside the bubble. It's a newer requirement. In a few years someone will have a really good one... we'll struggle through in the meantime.

[Wgoodrich]

Don't look for a bubble shield cover that is rigid and tough. Look for a bubble shield that will bend with the abuse and bounce back to shape. They have a gray PVC plastic bubble shield cover. This one seems to take a bending and abuse then will bounce back to shape without snapping. Not the prettiest but seems to take it and keep on taking it.

Good Luck

Wg