NEC Code 2014: Tips and Tricks for Electrical Installations and Equipment
NEC Code 2014 PDF Download: Everything You Need to Know
If you are an electrician, a contractor, a builder, or a homeowner, you probably have heard of the NEC Code. But what is it exactly and why do you need it? And how can you download it as a PDF file for free? In this article, we will answer all these questions and more. We will explain what the NEC Code is, what it covers, how it changed in 2014, how to use it, how to download it, how to update it, and how to avoid common mistakes with it. By the end of this article, you will have everything you need to know about the NEC Code 2014 PDF download.
Nec Code 2014 Pdf Download
What is the NEC Code and why is it important?
The NEC Code, or the National Electrical Code, is a set of standards and regulations for the safe installation and operation of electrical systems in the United States. It is published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a nonprofit organization that aims to reduce fire and electrical hazards. The NEC Code is not a law, but it is adopted by most states and local jurisdictions as part of their building codes. Therefore, complying with the NEC Code is essential for anyone who works with electricity or electrical equipment.
The history and purpose of the NEC Code
The first edition of the NEC Code was published in 1897, as a result of a collaboration between various electrical associations and insurance companies. The goal was to create a uniform code that would prevent fires and accidents caused by faulty wiring and equipment. Since then, the NEC Code has been revised and updated every three years to reflect the latest advances in technology and safety. The current edition of the NEC Code is the 2020 edition, which was released in August 2019. However, many states and localities still use older editions of the code, such as the 2017 edition or the 2014 edition.
The main features and changes of the NEC Code 2014
The NEC Code 2014 is the 54th edition of the code, which was released in August 2013. It contains over 900 pages of rules and guidelines for various types of electrical installations and equipment. Some of the main features and changes of the NEC Code 2014 are:
A new article on low-voltage suspended ceiling power distribution systems.
A new article on modular data centers.
A new article on fire-resistant cables.
A new section on arc energy reduction.
A new section on ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection for personnel.
A new section on surge protection devices (SPDs).
A new section on electric vehicle charging systems.
A new section on photovoltaic (PV) systems.
A new section on energy storage systems (ESSs).
A new section on wind electric systems.
A new section on fuel cell systems.
A new section on fire pumps.
A new section on emergency systems.
A new section on communications systems.
A new section on swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs.
Many revisions and clarifications of existing rules and definitions.
How to use and apply the NEC Code 2014
The NEC Code 2014 is organized into nine chapters, each with several articles and sections. The chapters are:
General: This chapter covers the general requirements and definitions for electrical installations and equipment.
Wiring and Protection: This chapter covers the wiring methods, materials, and protection devices for electrical systems.
Wiring Methods and Materials: This chapter covers the specific wiring methods and materials for various types of electrical installations and equipment.
Equipment for General Use: This chapter covers the general requirements and specifications for various types of electrical equipment, such as appliances, lighting, motors, generators, transformers, etc.
Special Occupancies: This chapter covers the special requirements and exceptions for electrical installations and equipment in specific locations or situations, such as hazardous locations, health care facilities, marinas, recreational vehicles, etc.
Special Equipment: This chapter covers the special requirements and specifications for specific types of electrical equipment, such as electric signs, fire alarm systems, solar photovoltaic systems, etc.
Special Conditions: This chapter covers the special requirements and conditions for specific types of electrical systems, such as emergency systems, standby systems, communications systems, etc.
Communications Systems: This chapter covers the requirements and specifications for various types of communications systems, such as telephone systems, radio and television systems, optical fiber cables, etc.
Tables: This chapter contains various tables that provide useful information and data for electrical installations and equipment, such as conductor ampacities, conduit fill ratios, grounding electrode conductors, etc.
To use and apply the NEC Code 2014 correctly, you need to follow these steps:
Determine the type and scope of your electrical project. For example, are you installing a new circuit or modifying an existing one? Are you working in a residential or commercial building? Are you dealing with a low-voltage or high-voltage system?
Identify the relevant chapters, articles, and sections of the NEC Code 2014 that apply to your project. For example, if you are installing a new outlet in a bathroom, you need to refer to Chapter 2 (Wiring and Protection), Article 210 (Branch Circuits), Section 210.8 (Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel), Article 406 (Receptacles), Section 406.9 (Receptacles in Damp or Wet Locations), etc.
Read and understand the rules and guidelines of the NEC Code 2014 that apply to your project. For example, if you are installing a new outlet in a bathroom, you need to know that it must be GFCI-protected, that it must be at least 6 feet away from the bathtub or shower stall, that it must be rated for at least 15 amps and 125 volts, that it must have a weather-resistant cover if exposed to moisture or water spray, etc.
Follow the rules and guidelines of the NEC Code 2014 when designing and installing your electrical project. For example, if you are installing a new outlet in a bathroom, you need to use the appropriate wiring method and material (such as NM cable or conduit), you need to use the correct size and type of wire (such as 14 AWG copper wire with THHN insulation), you need to use the proper connectors and fittings (such as wire nuts or crimp terminals), you need to secure and support the wire properly (such as with staples or straps), you need to install the outlet box correctly (such as flush with the wall surface or recessed no more than 1/4 inch), you need to connect the wires correctly (such as black to brass screw, white to silver screw, green or bare to green screw), you need to test the outlet for proper operation (such as with a voltage tester or a plug-in tester), etc.
How to download the NEC Code 2014 PDF for free
use of the code. Therefore, you need to be careful and selective when choosing a source to download the NEC Code 2014 PDF for free.
The official sources of the NEC Code 2014 PDF
The official sources of the NEC Code 2014 PDF are the ones that are authorized and endorsed by the NFPA, the publisher of the code. These sources include:
The NFPA website: The NFPA website (www.nfpa.org) offers free access to the NEC Code 2014 PDF for registered users. You need to create a free account and log in to view and download the code. You can also access other NFPA codes and standards, as well as related resources and information.
The NFPA app: The NFPA app is a mobile application that allows you to access the NEC Code 2014 PDF and other NFPA codes and standards on your smartphone or tablet. You can download the app for free from the App Store or Google Play. You need to create a free account and log in to use the app.
The NFPA Handbook: The NFPA Handbook is a comprehensive guide that explains and illustrates the NEC Code 2014 in detail. It provides commentary, examples, diagrams, tables, charts, and photos that help you understand and apply the code. You can purchase the handbook as a hardcover book or as a PDF file from the NFPA website or other online retailers.
The unofficial sources of the NEC Code 2014 PDF
The unofficial sources of the NEC Code 2014 PDF are the ones that are not authorized or endorsed by the NFPA, but may still provide a valid and useful version of the code. These sources include:
The Internet Archive: The Internet Archive (archive.org) is a nonprofit digital library that preserves and provides access to various types of media, such as books, music, videos, websites, etc. You can find and download the NEC Code 2014 PDF from the Internet Archive for free. However, you need to check the quality and accuracy of the file before using it.
The Scribd: Scribd (www.scribd.com) is a subscription-based online platform that hosts millions of documents, books, audiobooks, magazines, etc. You can find and download the NEC Code 2014 PDF from Scribd for free if you sign up for a 30-day trial. However, you need to cancel your subscription before the trial ends to avoid being charged.
The Library Genesis: Library Genesis (libgen.rs) is a search engine that indexes millions of books and articles from various sources. You can find and download the NEC Code 2014 PDF from Library Genesis for free. However, you need to be aware of the legal and ethical issues of using this source.
The pros and cons of downloading the NEC Code 2014 PDF
Downloading the NEC Code 2014 PDF has some advantages and disadvantages that you need to consider before deciding whether to do it or not. Some of the pros and cons are:
Table 3: Pros and cons of downloading the NEC Code 2014 PDF Pros Cons ---- ---- It is free or low-cost compared to buying a printed copy of the code. It may be illegal or unethical depending on the source and jurisdiction. It is convenient and portable as you can access it on your computer or device anytime and anywhere. It may be incomplete or outdated depending on the source and version. It is searchable and editable as you can use keywords or tools to find or modify information in the file. It may be corrupted or infected depending on the source and file format. It is eco-friendly as it saves paper and ink compared to printing a copy of the code. It may be hard to read or navigate depending on the file size and layout. How to update and maintain the NEC Code 2014 PDF
the NFPA and its committees, based on the feedback and input from various stakeholders and experts. The latest edition of the NEC Code is the 2020 edition, which was released in August 2019. However, many states and localities still use older editions of the code, such as the 2017 edition or the 2014 edition.
The frequency and process of updating the NEC Code
The NEC Code is updated every three years by the NFPA and its committees, following a rigorous and transparent process that involves several stages and steps. The process is as follows:
Public input: The NFPA invites the public to submit proposals for changes or additions to the existing code. Anyone can submit a proposal online or by mail, as long as they follow the guidelines and deadlines set by the NFPA.
Committee action: The NFPA assigns each proposal to one of its 19 code-making panels (CMPs), which are composed of experts and representatives from various fields and sectors related to electrical safety. The CMPs review, discuss, and vote on each proposal, and issue a report that contains their recommendations and rationales.
Public comment: The NFPA publishes the committee report online and invites the public to submit comments on the recommendations of the CMPs. Anyone can submit a comment online or by mail, as long as they follow the guidelines and deadlines set by the NFPA.
Committee action: The NFPA sends the comments to the CMPs, which review, discuss, and vote on them, and issue a second report that contains their final recommendations and rationales.
Association action: The NFPA holds an annual meeting where its members vote on the final recommendations of the CMPs. The members can approve, reject, or amend the recommendations, based on their own judgment and expertise.
Standards council action: The NFPA standards council, which is a group of 13 members appointed by the NFPA board of directors, reviews and approves the final version of the code. The standards council can also reject or return the code for further revision, if they find any errors or inconsistencies.
Publication: The NFPA publishes the final version of the code online and in print, and makes it available for purchase or download. The NFPA also provides various resources and information to help users understand and apply the code.
The best practices and tips for maintaining the NEC Code 2014 PDF
To maintain the NEC Code 2014 PDF in good condition and ensure that it is useful and reliable, you need to follow some best practices and tips, such as:
Check for updates: You need to check regularly if there are any updates or revisions to the NEC Code 2014 PDF from the official sources. You can sign up for email alerts or newsletters from the NFPA website or app to stay informed about any changes or additions to the code.
Backup your file: You need to backup your NEC Code 2014 PDF file regularly to prevent losing it or damaging it due to technical issues or accidents. You can use cloud storage services or external devices to store a copy of your file safely and securely.
Protect your file: You need to protect your NEC Code 2014 PDF file from unauthorized access or use by using passwords or encryption tools. You also need to scan your file for viruses or malware regularly by using antivirus software or online tools.
Organize your file: You need to organize your NEC Code 2014 PDF file by using bookmarks or annotations tools. You can create bookmarks for different chapters, articles, or sections of the code for easy navigation. You can also add annotations such as notes, highlights, or comments to mark important information or questions in the file.
the code and the source of the file. You also need to cite the code properly when using it for reference or research purposes.
The common errors and issues with the NEC Code 2014 PDF
Despite following the best practices and tips for maintaining the NEC Code 2014 PDF, you may still encounter some errors or issues with the file that can affect its quality or usability. Some of the common errors and issues are:
Broken links: You may find that some of the links in the NEC Code 2014 PDF are broken or not working, such as links to external websites or resources. This may be due to changes or updates in the source or destination of the links, or due to errors in the file format or conversion.
Missing pages: You may find that some of the pages in the NEC Code 2014 PDF are missing or blank, such as pages that contain tables, charts, or images. This may be due to errors in the file format or conversion, or due to incomplete or corrupted downloads.
Wrong fonts: You may find that some of the fonts in the NEC Code 2014 PDF are wrong or unreadable, such as fonts that are too small, too large, or too fancy. This may be due to errors in the file format or conversion, or due to incompatible or missing fonts on your computer or device.
Slow loading: You may find that the NEC Code 2014 PDF takes a long time to load or open on your computer or device, especially if the file size is large or if your internet connection is slow. This may affect your efficiency and productivity when using the file.
Low resolution: You may find that the resolution of the NEC Code 2014 PDF is low or poor, especially if you zoom in or print out the file. This may affect your readability and comprehension of the file.
Conclusion
Summary of the main points
In this article, we have covered everything you need to know about the NEC Code 2014 PDF download. We have explained what the NEC Code is, what it covers, how it changed in 2014, how to use it, how to download it, how to update it, and how to avoid common mistakes with it. We have also provided two tables that summarize the outline of the article and the pros and cons of downloading the NEC Code 2014 PDF.
Call to action
If you are interested in downloading the NEC Code 2014 PDF for free, you can choose one of the sources we have mentioned in this article. However, you need to be careful and selective when choosing a source, and follow some best practices and tips when maintaining your file. You also need to check for updates and revisions regularly to ensure that your file is current and accurate.
The NEC Code 2014 PDF is a valuable and useful resource for anyone who works with electricity or electrical equipment. It can help you ensure safety and compliance in your electrical projects. However, it is not a substitute for professional advice or training. You should always consult a qualified electrician or engineer before starting any electrical work.
FAQs
Q: How can I get a printed copy of the NEC Code 2014?
A: You can purchase a printed copy of the NEC Code 2014 from the NFPA website or other online retailers. The price may vary depending on the seller and shipping options.
Q: How can I learn more about the NEC Code 2014?
the NFPA, such as the NFPA website, the NFPA app, the NFPA Handbook, the NFPA Journal, the NFPA Training, etc. You can also join online forums or communities where you can interact with other users and experts of the code.
Q: How can I get involved in the revision and update of the NEC Code?
A: You can get involved in the revision and update of the NEC Code by submitting proposals or comments to the NFPA during the public input and public comment stages of the process. You can also apply to become a member of one of the CMPs or attend the annual meeting of the NFPA.
Q: How can I contact the NFPA for questions or feedback about the NEC Code 2014?
A: You can contact the NFPA for questions or feedback about the NEC Code 2014 by using one of the following methods:
Email: You can send an email to nec@nfpa.org.
Phone: You can call 1-800-344-3555 (toll-free) or 1-617-770-3000 (international).
Fax: You can fax 1-617-770-0700.
Mail: You can mail to National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, USA.
Online: You can fill out an online form at https://www.nfpa.org/ContactUs.aspx.
Q: How can I cite the NEC Code 2014 in my research paper or report?
A: You can cite the NEC Code 2014 in your research paper or report by using one of the following formats:
Table 4: Citation formats for the NEC Code 2014 Style Format ----- ------ APA National Fire Protection Association. (2014). National electrical code (NFPA 70). https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=70 MLA National Fire Protection Association. National Electrical Code. NFPA 70, 2014. https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=70