Water Line/Electrical/Gas in Same Channel

Statjunk

Statjunk

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Hey guys,

I've been faced with this decision a few times of putting a water line and an electrical box in the same stud channel. I've always managed to move one or the other to keep them seperated out of common sense. Same with Gas.

So what is the code with multiple services in the same stud channel? Is it allowed by code?

Water/Electrical

Gas/Electrical

Water/Gas

Thanks

Tom
 
The NEC is silent on the issue, so as far as it is concerned, it all can go into the same trench.

You may have other (local) codes that may dictate otherwise. Call you local building department for a definite answer.
 
480sparky said:
The NEC is silent on the issue, so as far as it is concerned, it all can go into the same trench.

.
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If by "trench" you are literally talking about underground, I think that was not the question. He was talking about in the walls in the house, in the same 14" stud space.
 
pipes

As long as the electrical is 1" away from the plumbing lines it is okay. Which is why the plumbing is supposed to be installed before the electrical because they don't always install their wires so they can give that separation.
 
hj said:
As long as the electrical is 1" away from the plumbing lines it is okay. Which is why the plumbing is supposed to be installed before the electrical because they don't always install their wires so they can give that separation.
Click to expand...

Could you give us a code referance on this please?
 
Last edited:
What about gas and electric?

I'm really surprised there is no code on this? I've always gone through great pains to keep them seperated like I did last night while installing a water line for a refridgerator with a recessed box in the wall.

Thanks

Tom
 
jimbo said:
If by "trench" you are literally talking about underground, I think that was not the question. He was talking about in the walls in the house, in the same 14" stud space.
Click to expand...

Would help if I read. All the words, too.

But, I don't see any reason they cannot be in the same stud cavity, unless there is a local code against it.

Why keep them separated? Water & electricity come together in you dishwasher, disposal, washing machine, well pump, etc.

Gas & electricity come together in your direct-vent water heater, gas stove, dryer, range, etc.

Gas & water come together in a direct-vent water heater.
 
Makes sense. I guess I've done it for servicability. Though your right doesn't seem to be a reason for the madness.

Thanks

Tom
 
paulo ney said:
I have never seen soo much junk as you can see on this thread ...

In general:
  • Electrical and gas lines need to be at least 24 inches apart from each other
  • Electrical and water lines need to be at least 12 inches apart from each other
  • Electrical and sewer lines need to be at least 24 inches apart from each other
  • Electrical and communication lines need to be at least 12 inches apart from each other

So obviously you CANNOT run them in the same channel.
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Outside, underground, in a trench is one thing...inside in a wall is another.
 
There's so much misinformation on this topic. It's like every installer and inspector remembers something someone told them, and repeats it as gospel time and again. Here are some codes:

CPC 720.1 General based on IAMPO
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Building sewers or drainage piping of clay or materials that are not approved for use within a building shall not be run or laid in the same trench as the water pipes unless the following requirements are met:
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  • The bottom of the water pipe, at points, shall be not less than 12 inches (305 mm) above the top of the sewer or drain line.
  • The water pipe shall be placed on a solid shelf excavated at one side of the common trench with a clear horizontal distance of not less than 12 inches (305 mm) from the sewer or drain line.
  • Water pipes crossing sewer or drainage piping constructed of clay or materials that are not approved for use within a building shall be laid not less than 12 inches (305 mm) above the sewer or drain pipe.
For the purpose of this section, "within a building" shall mean within the fixed limits of the building foundation.
Click to expand...

So unless you're using clay pipes: sewer and water can share the trench.
The reason to separate them is for future repairs.

---------------------------------------------------------

For gas & electric, your local utility rulebook may apply. Mine is from PG&E and called the "Green Book"

1662687369335.png


The local utility does not allow sharing a trench with sewer or water AT ALL.
 
Inside wiring restrictions is usually concerns the breaker panel. No water pipes above a breaker panel is not allowed to prevent any possible condensation, leaks or breaks from dripping down onto the panel. No known restrictions in the same joist cavity. The only caution is such as iron pipe (gas) should not be in contact with copper pipes due to galvanic corrosion issues.

The National Electrical Code (NEC) does not specifically address plumbing pipe clearance, but requires an area clear of any obstructions that is 2’-6” wide, 3’-0” deep, and 6’-6” high around the front of a panel [NEC 110.26(A)].
No plumbing pipes or other items are allowed in this area, except that other electrical equipment that is part of the panel installation is allowed above or below the panel, as long as it does not protrude more than 6” into the working space [NEC 110.26(A)(3)]. Also, the panel is not required to be centered in this space but the space must allow at least a 90º opening of the panel door. [NEC 110.26(A)(2)].
 
Did anyone happen to notice that this thread is from 2007 (15 years ago).

To anyone finding this thread in a search please be aware of the fact that some codes may have changed within the 15 years since this post started. Please check code offices etc for most recent codes.
 
hj said:
pipes

As long as the electrical is 1" away from the plumbing lines it is okay. Which is why the plumbing is supposed to be installed before the electrical because they don't always install their wires so they can give that separation.
Click to expand...
Do you have the specific code on this?
 
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