Is it safe to hide a breaker box?

Hiding an electrical breaker box is generally not recommended, as it could create potential safety hazards and violate electrical codes. However, there may be some scenarios where concealing a breaker box could be acceptable, provided certain precautions are taken.

Why Would You Want to Hide a Breaker Box?

There are a few reasons why homeowners may want to conceal a breaker box:

• Aesthetics – Breaker boxes can be considered unsightly, so hiding them may improve the look of a room.
• Safety – Concealing the breaker box could prevent tampering by children or others who shouldn’t access it.
• Space savings – Hiding the box can regain some usable wall space in a closet, garage or utility area.

In many cases, breaker boxes are installed in basements, garages, closets or other utilitarian spaces where aesthetics are not a primary concern. But in some homes, the panel may be installed along a main living area wall where the homeowner would prefer it be less visibly obtrusive.

Potential Dangers of a Concealed Breaker Box

While the desire to hide an unattractive breaker box is understandable, there are some potential downsides to consider:

• Lack of accessibility – If a problem occurs, the breaker box needs to be quickly accessed to shut off power. Hiding it could delay this response time.
• Overheating – Enclosing the breaker box could cause it to overheat, which is a fire hazard.
• Electric shock or electrocution – Exposed wiring to or from a hidden box presents a serious shock risk.
• Code violations – Most jurisdictions prohibit concealing breaker boxes in ways that restrict access.

Requirements for Hiding a Breaker Box

If you do wish to conceal a breaker box, there are specific requirements to follow:

• Use only non-combustible materials – Drywall, cement board, metal and masonry are acceptable covering materials. Never use wood or flammable products to enclose a panel.
• No permanent framing – The box cannot be permanently walled in. Removable panels or swings doors are acceptable.
• Full access – All breakers must be fully usable without any obstructions.
• Clear labeling – The outline of the box and purpose must be clearly labeled.
• Proper ventilation – Openings are required to allow air circulation and prevent overheating.
• Professional installation – Licensed electricians should install all concealed breaker boxes.
• Local approval – Building codes may require permits and inspections for concealed panels.

Installation of a Concealed Breaker Box

If the above requirements are met, a breaker box may be safely concealed. Here are some typical installation methods:

• Recess mounting – The box is recessed into a wall cavity so the front cover is flush with the wall surface. An access door is cut into the drywall.
• Box extension – An extension ring is affixed to bring the breaker box flush with the wall surface. A hinged access door attaches to the extension.
• Wall mounting – The box is mounted directly on framing or fire-rated sheathing. A removable access panel covers the front.
• Freestanding closet – The box can be installed inside a non-combustible, dedicated closet with a louvered door to allow ventilation.

Again, proper clearances around the box must be maintained, and ventilation openings provided. Only accredited electrical contractors should attempt to enclose a breaker panel.

Inspections and Permits

Most building codes prohibit concealing electrical panels without proper permits and inspections. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, but often include:

• Submitting plans showing the concealment method.
• Providing details on ventilation and access door size.
• Using fire-retardant construction materials.
• Passing rough-in and final installation inspections.
• Paying permit fees based on project scope.

Licensed electricians will be familiar with the local permitting process and can obtain required approvals prior to concealing a breaker box.

Concealing Methods NOT Permitted

Some methods of hiding a breaker box are expressly forbidden due to safety concerns:

• Wooden boxes or enclosures attached to the wall surface.
• Installing drywall or paneling directly against the breaker box.
• Permanent walling-in without removable access doors.
• Covering ventilation openings or restricting air flow.
• Relocating in a bedroom, bathroom, closet or other prohibited area.

Again, check with local building officials if you have any uncertainty about permissible methods of concealing a breaker panel.

Concealed Breaker Box Requirements Summary

Here is a summary of the key requirements for hiding an electrical breaker box:

Requirement	Reason
Fire rated materials	Prevent combustion
Ventilation openings	Allow air circulation
Full breaker access	Enable emergency shutoff
Removable cover	Permit quick access
Proper clearances	Prevent overheating
Professional installation	Ensure safety
Permits and inspection	Meet code requirements

Safety Tips

When concealing a breaker box, keep in mind these electrical safety recommendations:

• Have a qualified electrician do the work who can ensure compliance with all codes.
• Use only specified non-combustible covering materials, never flammable products.
• Do not enclose the box until the final inspection verifies it meets all requirements.
• Ensure the access door size and location meets minimum code requirements.
• Properly label and illuminate the concealed box to allow quick location in an emergency.
• Never restrict air flow – perforated metal or louvers may be required to ventilate an enclosed box.

Conclusion

Hiding a breaker box is legally permitted but only if very specific safety precautions are followed. It should only be done when there is a compelling aesthetic reason and never simply for convenience. Strict adherence to electrical codes and hiring professional electricians is critical, as improperly enclosing a panel can create serious safety risks from electrocution, fire and inability to quickly shut off power during an emergency.

In summary, homeowners should carefully weigh the benefits versus potential risks before moving forward with concealing a breaker box. Obtaining proper permits and following the recommended safe installation methods outlined here can help mitigate those risks when there are no other options. But keeping panels readily visible and accessible remains the safest approach in nearly all cases.