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The Code Question of the Day (CQD) is NECA and ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Magazine’s flagship National Electrical Code (NEC®) public forum for the industry. The daily distribution of Q&A generates a lively dialogue and shares relative Code-based practical responses.
October 23, 2026
Hi CQD - Ground rods come in many sizes and materials. If no drawings or specifications show a ground rod size, length or material, is any listed ground rod acceptable? Thanks, Brian S.
October 22, 2026
Good Morning - I've following CQD for many years. You provide a great service to the electrical professionals. We've having numerous discussions about this issue. When installing a load center outside and feeding branch circuits through a PVC sleeve with Romex. Is the area inside the NEMA 3R enclosure considered a damp or wet location? We are using the 2023 NEC, and I would appreciate your input. Thanks, Mark R.
Hello Mark R.,
Yes, if that 3R load center is exposed to weather, treat it as a wet location. Article 100 defines wet location to include any spot that is unprotected and exposed to weather. If the panel is under a roof or canopy and only sees moderate moisture, perhaps it could be classified as a damp location.
Either way, NM cable (romex) is not allowed to be installed in either wet or damp locations per 334.12(B). The inside of the PVC sleeve in this case would also be considered a wet location per 300.9, so the wiring methods inside need to be listed for wet locations; 310.10(C) gives you a few options.