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F. WATER/RUSTED CONNECTIONS IN BOX:
It is common for water and consequently, rust to occur in distribution panels. Often the entrance cable (Fig. F1, Item A) leaves the meter base, (Fig. F1, Item B) penetrates the wall, (Fig. F1, Item C) and drops to a panel in the basement (Fig. F1, Item D). If the caulking around the cable penetration is not kept sealed, rainwater often drips or runs along the cable straight into the top of the box (Fig. F1, Item E). The water may simply drip through the box, or it may corrode connections and internal components.
 Fig. F1
WHAT TO: HOW TO:
When water has entered the box and rusting is evident, it is wise to shut off the power at the meter, disassemble the box, completely examine it, and clean all the connections. Consider replacing rusted circuit breakers, etc. MAKE CERTAIN THAT WATER CANNOT FOLLOW YOUR ELECTRICAL ENTRANCE CABLE INTO THE PANEL BOX. Rust repair work is A JOB FOR A PROFESSIONAL. Pulling a meter is dangerous. SOMETIMES THE ENTIRE PANEL SHOULD BE REPLACED.
REFERENCE: E4, E5, E17 |
