Generally, may non-service conductors be installed in the same raceway or service cable as service conductors?

Generally, may non-service conductors be installed in the same raceway or service cable as service conductors?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only with special permit
• D. Only if larger than service conductors

Answer: (B)

Service conductors carry the building’s main supply and have unique protection and accessibility requirements. Placing other conductors in the same raceway or service cable as those service conductors can create heat, interference, and maintenance issues, and it complicates the ability to safely disconnect the service. Because of these safety and reliability concerns, non-service conductors are generally not installed in the same raceway or service cable as service conductors. Exceptions exist only under very specific, listed conditions with appropriate approvals, but the standard practice is to keep them separate.

Service conductors carry the building’s main supply and have unique protection and accessibility requirements. Placing other conductors in the same raceway or service cable as those service conductors can create heat, interference, and maintenance issues, and it complicates the ability to safely disconnect the service. Because of these safety and reliability concerns, non-service conductors are generally not installed in the same raceway or service cable as service conductors. Exceptions exist only under very specific, listed conditions with appropriate approvals, but the standard practice is to keep them separate.