NEC 230.85 Service Disconnect

[cbratina]

I am rebuilding a vacation cottage so will need to install a new meter and 200 amp/240 volt service disconnect to comply with NEC 230.85.
• Can I use a Service Disconnect or does it have to be a circuit breaker? I have worked in industry for 50 years and found that circuit breakers fail more frequently in humid locations exposed to hot and cold ambient temperatures so I want to use a disconnect outside.
• Can I get a Service Disconnect that I can install a fireman's lock in the ON position to ensure no vandals can turn the power off in the middle of winter. We won’t be around for much of the winter.
• Does the service disconnect have to be mounted on the outside of the house? I would like to install it with the meter on a backboard next to the garage as we will have underground conduit to the house.
• I want to install a generator to cover the frequent power outages powering only the furnace and heating recirc pumps through a subpanel. Can I install the transfer switch inside the house at my breaker panel?

 

[BillK]

I would think that all of those questions could be answered by your local authorities who will have to inspect it anyway. Might as well find out how they want it done.

 

[alfredeneuman]

Does the service disconnect have to be mounted on the outside of the house?

If you're in a State that's adopted the 2020 NEC it's required.
Previous editions didn't

 

[Bert_]

Not a very well worded question since a service disconnect is always required. A main breaker is one form of a service disconnect.

 

[Terry D]

Prior to the 2020 NEC, A service disconnecting means was required to installed in a readily accessible location outside the building or inside nearest the point of entrance. This is usually in form of main breaker.

Now, with the adoption of the 2020 NEC 230.85 requires an emergency service disconnecting means located outside the structure on one and two family dwellings. The emergency service disconnect can still be the service disconnect, but must be outside. It must be labeled "emergency disconnect"

The emergency disconnect is for first responders to quickly and safely shut power off in case of fire, gas leak, flooding, etc

So depending on what code cycle your area is in, it may or may not be required

I am not sure of it being allowed to be locked, having to be able to use a key is still readily accessible

The emergency disconnect can be in the same enclosure as the meter. This is just one style. Your utility should have a list of approved disconnects for your area.

https://milbankworks.com/getmedia/c7db0e77-7942-46df-8e39-51497cacf173/Flyer_U5168.pdf

 

[Terry D]

Not a very well worded question since a service disconnect is always required. A main breaker is one form of a service disconnect.

Prior to 2020 there was no article 230.85, so he is referring to the emergency service disconnect