Is it within code to mount the breaker box on an exterior wall (not exterior but on a cold wall within the apartment)? The building inspector says insulation needs to put behind the box but there is old construction with 2×4 walls so no room plus box and wires are already installed.
Electrical – install a service panel on an exterior wall
electricalelectrical-panelinsulation
Related Solutions
I think based on the comments I better understand your scenario now.
Building Science has a lot of great information on basement insulation and the suggested method is to use XPS foam against the walls, optionally bats between the studs and no vapor barrier (since the XPS foam is the vapor barrier).
I would suggest that you use 1 1/2 - 2" XPS foam against the walls, and then space your studs another inch or so away from the wall (to allow your water to drain). If you need higher R values then the XPS provides you can use bats between the studs and I would suggest something like Roxul insulation which is stone wool instead of fiberglass since it is not affected by moisture like fiberglass is.
It would also be advisable to use steel studs so that they don't rot should they come in contact with moisture. You might also opt to put the bottom plate on top of a piece of XPS foam so that there is a less likelihood of the metal studs rusting.
I have done a similar project. Generally, when the wall thickness is greater than the window frame, you install boards as a box to "thicken" the install. That is, you don't have to touch the window proper, but replace the case. It's a bit easier to visualize after you've done your demo.
The quick and dirty solution in an image:
- You'll want 2x framing on all 4 sides.
- Width of the 1x material should be flush-ish with the drywall to be installed later.
- Be very careful with the drilling!.
- The last step before painting and caulking will be to install mitred moulding to cover the exposed edge of the box and the drywall gap.
- The final step will be to put an attractive potted plant or cat on the sill.
Related Topic
- Electrical – Water heater in close with wall ajoining breaker panel
- Insulating a 2×4 wall with exterior rigid foam
- Basement – Installing in-wall speakers in an exterior basement wall
- Plumbing – How to protect this plumbing in an exterior wall from freezing
- Electrical – Outdoor service panel replacement
- Electrical – Building out wall for electric panel
Best Answer
I have never had an issue of a panel on an exterior wall infact over 95% of panels I have installed are on exterior walls or basement walls. If the inspector is concerned about condensation ask if he would allow a small device for dehumidification or low wattage fire rod would be allowed, many years ago I started putting low wattage fire rods in outside panels close to pools or water sources this keeps the panel just warm enough to not condense the moisture and extends the panel life.
But as I know of no direct code reference I would ask the inspector to cite the code reference that requires insulation.
I do know inspectors that try to pull crap on home owners and when I moved to a new county I had not worked in I think the inspector had 4 write ups and one would be considered a red flag (power down) I asked him what the code reference was because I had not touched that part of the structure, he stammered and said it was always that way I grabbed an older code book that I had at home and flipped it to the section and said no you are wrong and we can call the chief electrical inspector is you want to keep any of your opinions on the record. He then asked what are you an electrician and I gave him my number he wrote up a new inspection report with all items passing. So I know they do it maybe not all but in my location they do.