Is it OK to cover electrical panel?

Whether it is acceptable to cover an electrical panel is a common question for many homeowners. The electrical panel, also known as the breaker box, is the central hub that connects the incoming power from the utility or generator to the various circuits in the home that distribute electricity. Proper access to the electrical panel is crucial for maintenance, inspection, and emergency shutoffs. There are some cases where covering the electrical panel may seem convenient or aesthetically pleasing, but there are important safety guidelines to consider first.

Electrical Code Requirements

The National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes contain specific requirements regarding electrical panel clearances. According to NEC 110.26, a clear and unobstructed space at least 30 inches wide and 36 inches deep must be maintained in front of the electrical panel. This means that within that space, no objects or architectural elements can impede access to the panel. Furthermore, the panel door must be able to fully open 90 degrees to allow access to the full interior. The height of the working space must extend from the floor or platform to at least 6.5 feet off the ground.

The NEC prohibits the electrical panel from being located behind a door that could swing closed and conceal it. There also cannot be any permanent obstructions taller than 6 feet, such as cabinets or shelves, in the space. The electrical panel area must be completely clear of storage, equipment, furniture, decorations, etc. This code ensures that an electrician can safely access the panel without hindrance in the event of an emergency or for routine maintenance.

Fire Safety Concerns

In addition to meeting code requirements, keeping the electrical panel unobstructed is also vitally important for fire safety. Electrical faults that could spark a fire are unfortunately common, with around 40,000 home fires per year in the U.S. caused by electrical failure or malfunction according to the National Fire Protection Association. If a fire did start within or near the electrical panel, having the ability to quickly shut off the main breaker to kill power could help contain the fire and allow safe egress from the home.

Any coverings or obstructions in front of the panel would significantly impede access in an emergency situation. Valuable time would be lost trying to remove a cover or other barriers, which could allow the fire to spread. Electrical fires develop extremely fast, so those critical seconds could make the difference in being able to successfully shut off power or not. For this reason, fire safety experts universally advise to never obstruct or cover electrical panels.

Hazards of Covering Panels

Beyond falling short of legal requirements, there are several direct hazards that can result from covering electrical panels:

• Impedes routine maintenance and inspection – Electricians may be unable to thoroughly check wiring and components.
• Prevents finding malfunctions – Signs of damaged or faulty equipment would be hidden from view.
• Hinders emergency shutdown – Access would be obstructed in the event of an electrical fire or other crisis when immediate panel access is necessary.
• Hides warning signs – Indications of problems like corrosion, leaks, cracks or overheating would be concealed.
• Traps heat – Coverings could cause excessive heat buildup inside the panel, raising fire risk.
• Promotes moisture – Coverings can trap moisture and condensation inside the panel, leading to rust and short circuits.

Any of these hazards resulting from obstructing the panel could lead to electric shock, fire, extensive property damage, serious injuries or even death in a worst case scenario.

Alternatives to Covering Panels

For homeowners who want to camouflage the utilitarian electrical panel for aesthetic purposes, there are solutions that can accomplish this goal without creating hazards:

• Paint the panel to match the surrounding wall color using high heat-resistant paint formulated for electrical equipment.
• Build an enclosure or recess the panel – as long as the minimum work space clearance is still maintained.
• Add a decorative frame or trim around the panel to help it visually blend in.
• Use strategic placement of furniture or wall art to draw the eye away from the panel.
• Install curtains, blinds or other window treatments that can conceal the panel when closed.
• Place a removable picture or tapestry over the panel that can be quickly pulled aside in an emergency.

Special Cases

There are a few specific scenarios where covering an electrical panel could potentially meet code:

• Doors – A door installed in front of the panel must open fully at least 90 degrees to allow full access. The panel must be completely visible and reachable with the door open. An unlocked, non-locking door would be required.
• Glass covers – Completely transparent shatterproof covers may be permissible if installed at least 30 inches away from panel. This allows proper inspection and work space.
• Insulated covers – Insulated blankets are allowed for outdoor panels to prevent cold weather damage. The cover must be easily removable for inspection.
• Emergency shutoff – If there is a clear alternate means of shutting off power to the panel, such as a main breaker outside the home, a cover could potentially be approved.

However, these scenarios have limitations and may still be prohibited by local jurisdiction policies. Any coverings should be rigorously checked to ensure they adhere to all applicable electrical codes.

Conclusion

Covering or obstructing an electrical panel risks violating safety codes, hindering critical access in an emergency, and concealing signs of electrical malfunction that could lead to shock, electrocution or fire. While the desire for visually appealing décor is understandable, safety must take precedence where electrical systems are concerned. Thankfully there are attractive alternatives to improperly covering panels that do not pose hazards. Homeowners should check with local permitting offices if they have any doubts about whether a particular panel covering solution is compliant and safe for their home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it against code to cover an electrical panel?

Yes, in most cases it is against electrical code to cover an electrical panel. The National Electrical Code requires at least 30″ x 36″ of clear, unobstructed space in front of the panel for access. Covering the panel would violate this rule in most situations.

Can I put a picture or mirror in front of my electrical panel?

No, you should not put a picture, mirror, wall hanging or anything else that obstructs access in front of the electrical panel. Even decorative items could hinder access in an emergency. The area in front of the panel must be kept completely clear.

What can I put in front of an electrical panel?

The only objects permitted in the workspace area in front of the panel are removable cabinets and shelves less than 6 feet tall. No permanent objects or architectural elements are allowed by electrical code. You can decorate the wall on either side of the panel, but not directly in front of it.

Can I build a wall in front of my electrical panel?

No, you cannot build a permanent wall in front of the electrical panel. A removable partition may be possible in some cases if it is situated at least 30 inches away and does not limit access. However, you should have alternative emergency shutoffs in place if you obstruct the main panel.

Is it OK to enclose an electrical panel?

Electrical panels can be enclosed, but only if minimum clearances are still maintained. A cabinet door installed in front of the panel must be able to open fully at least 90 degrees. Local permitting offices should be consulted before enclosing a panel to ensure compliance.

Can you cover an electrical panel with a blanket?

A lightweight, removable insulating blanket specifically designed for electrical panels may be permissible to protect equipment from weather conditions. Heavy coverings like quilts or other fabrics can overheat the panel and should never be used. All blankets must be easily removable for inspection.

Can you wallpaper over an electrical panel?

No, applying wallpaper or any other surface finish material directly over the electrical panel door would be considered obstructing access. Covering any of the labels, warnings or instructions on the panel with wallpaper would also violate code.

Should electrical panels be covered outside?

Outdoor electrical panels do not require an open workspace, but still need to have labels and warnings clearly visible. Weather-resistant panel covers designed for outdoor use are available. Make sure any outdoor panel cover is rated for environmental exposure and can be removed to inspect the interior.

Can you get in trouble for covering an electrical panel?

Yes, covering an electrical panel in violation of code carries potentially serious consequences. You may be required to remove the covering at your own expense, and failure to comply could even result in power being disconnected to the property. In an emergency situation, obstructing panel access could lead to disastrous results.

Key Takeaways

• Covering electrical panels violates clearance rules in electrical codes and obstructs emergency access.
• Painting, wallpapering, placing furniture in front of panels could hinder access and hide warning signs.
• Permanent barriers or coverings that impede visibility or access are fire hazards and safety risks.
• Removable covers at proper clearances, open cabinet doors or glass partitions may be possible options in some cases.
• Always check local regulations before modifying space around electrical panels.

Table Comparing Safe and Unsafe Electrical Panel Covering Options

Covering Type	Safe	Unsafe
Solid door	If at least 30″ away and opens fully	If too close or obstructs access
Glass cover	If at least 30″ away	If too close
Insulating blanket	If removable for inspection	If permanent and heavy
Furniture/storage	If less than 6 ft. tall and removable	If large or permanent
Wall finish	On side walls only	On panel itself
Decorations	On side walls only	In front of panel
Weather cover	If exterior rated and removable	If limits access when closed

Final Thoughts

Maintaining easy access, visibility and ventilation around the electrical panel should always take priority over aesthetics. Covering panels almost always involves some degree of fire risk and code violation. Homeowners should only pursue panel covering solutions that have been thoroughly vetted against all applicable electrical codes and confirmed with local permitting authorities. Safety for occupants, electricians and emergency personnel is the prime concern. With careful planning, even panels in prominent interior areas can usually be incorporated into décor without hazardous concealment.