Ask Paul | National Electrical Code

In this episode, Paul was asked the following question. Listen as Paul talks about 5 steps that must be achieved to become an electrician, regardless of the state you are located in. The reason that most folks fail to achieve the dream of becoming an electrician is because they lose focus on the path. On today’s podcast we talk about the path you need to be laser focused on following if you are in your early 20’a to mid-30’s.  The goal is to make your late 40’s to 70’s as pleasant as possible.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul talks about 250.122 and how the EGC will be sized per the 2026 National Electrical Code. While I do not like this change, I will nonetheless teach it and break it down for everyone since there was a huge change when it comes to parallel raceways.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visits https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul talks about 210.70 in terms of Lighting Outlets. We will talk about where the “battery” backup aspect of the NEC disappeared to. So, this episode is all about lighting outlet requirements.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visits https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul talks about the new structure of the 2026 National Electrical Code. To begin any journey into the NEC we have to look at the structure. In the 2026 edition we see a focus on limited energy sources and how they are newly structured in Chapter 7. Big changes that will yield simplistic results that help learners of the NEC start to understand. Come with me on this opening journey.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visits https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul talks about working clearance and chimes in on the debate about the requirement for working clearance and if it’s even required for Transformers. Now, we are not talking Utility Transformers as we all know PAUL doesn’t talk about utility stuff. Also, he addresses the working clearance for the AC Disconnect in this episode also.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visits https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul talks about how to engage with a customer who needs your services but are hesitating on the purchase. They need “a little more time” and so on. Well, in this episode Paul talks about how to overcome that hesitation, ask for the sale, and educate them in the process. It’s not about being pushy, it’s all about being an authority.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visits https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul talks about how to engage with a customer who may not be happy, for whatever reason, with you and your company while on a service call or other interaction. Listen as Paul explains how to get to a Win-Win and you retain that hard earned lead while salvaging your local referral reputation.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visits https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul was asked the following question. Listen as Paul breaks down a change that is coming to the 2026 National Electrical Code regarding "listing" requirements for Staples, Straps, and Hangers when talking NM Cables, AC Cables, and MC Cables per UL 2239. Stay ahead of the curve by learning what is coming down the road.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

Elevate Your Expertise: Become a Certified Master Electrical Code Professional® (CMECP®) Are you a Master Electrician ready to set yourself apart from the competition? The CMECP® program at CMECP.org is the premier professional development opportunity designed exclusively for licensed Master Electricians who want to take their National Electrical Code (NEC) knowledge to the next level.This elite certification is not a replacement for a state license—it's a powerful credential that enhances your professional image, deepens your NEC expertise, and demonstrates your commitment to code excellence and safety. In a highly competitive industry, becoming a CMECP® Professional helps you stand out by showing clients, inspectors, and peers that you’re not just code-compliant—you’re code-confident. Why Become a CMECP® Professional? ✅ Advance Your NEC Mastery✅ Market Yourself as an Industry Expert✅ Stand Out Among Other Master Electricians✅ Gain Recognition and Trust✅ Expand Your Business OpportunitiesWhether you’re running your own contracting company, consulting on high-level projects, or teaching future electricians, the CMECP® designation gives you a distinct competitive edge.Not a License—A Level Above The CMECP® certification does not replace or remove your licensing requirements. Instead, it’s a voluntary, prestigious distinction for licensed Master Electricians who want to go beyond the minimum standard and prove they are among the top electrical minds in the field.Be the Leader Others Look To Join the ranks of elite professionals who wear the CMECP® title with pride. If you're serious about your trade, passionate about electrical code, and driven to be the best—then CMECP® is your next step.👉 Visit CMECP.org today to learn how to become a Certified Master Electrical Code Professional®. Keywords for SEO:Master Electrician CertificationAdvanced Electrician TrainingElectrician Professional DevelopmentNEC Expert CertificationElectrician Code TrainingElectrical Code CertificationCMECP® Program for Master ElectriciansNon-licensing Electrician CredentialBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul was asked the following question. Listen as Paul breaks down a question about if a metal wireway is used above a panel and interposed between an EMT raceway and a small 18” EMT Raceway, often called a nipple. Does the wireway have to meet the same “straight” as “Eight” requirements in 314.28(A)(1) even if not being used as a “pull box”. Also, he answers a question, in his opinion, of the lack of SCCR ratings on commercial HVAC equipment that may cause a conflict with 110.10 of the National Electrical Code.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

Master The NEC | Episode 25 | First Thoughts of some of the NITMAMS In this episode, Paul talks about some of the 2026 NITMAM (CAMS) that took place in Vegas. Remember, Successful amending motions must then be confirmed by the responsible Technical Committee by ballot. My podcast is about the outcome of the NITMAM only, not the final vote by the various CMP's who will disregard the will of the membership and fail the CAMS resulting in reversion to the second draft language. Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment. If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul was asked the following question. Listen as Paul breaks it down and how you have to make some assumptions based on the general rules and only answer exam questions as they are presented.Q: The maximum size of a circuit breaker that can be installed for 1 AWG THW feeder tap conductors is _____________ A. Answers:A)     100B)     110C)     125D)     150Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul was asked a question about where to find the 2 foot – 4 foot and 5 foot – 12-foot rules for receptacle spacing in the NEC, and why they do not see the 4 foot, or 12 feet mentioned. We also answer a question on do standalone sprinkler systems have to have a dedicated circuit and all the labeling requirements of a fire alarm system per NEC 760.41(B). Well, we have the answer for you on this episode so enjoy.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

Welcome to The Bond and Ground Podcast—On this episode Paul Abernathy discusses the misunderstanding of how to connect equipment grounding conductors, also known as EGC's in a box when you have multiple sizes and what happens when you have a metal box interposed in a PVC raceway system and visa versa for PVC boxes in metal raceway systems. On this podcast the National Electrical Code® becomes personal, practical, and powerfully clear. Hosted by Paul Abernathy, a respected voice on Code Making Panel 5 (CMP-5) and industry-leading expert on grounding and bonding, this show delivers deep insights into Article 250 and beyond. Each episode breaks down real-world applications of grounding and bonding rules, dispels myths, and explores the Code’s intent—so you’re not just following the rules, you're understanding them. Whether you're a licensed electrician, inspector, engineer, or serious Code student, The Bond and Ground Podcast equips you with the grounded knowledge you need to wire with confidence and stay compliant. 🎙️  Topics Include: - NEC Article 250 deep dives - Grounding electrode systems - Bonding jumpers, EGCs, and GECs - Isolated grounds, ground loops, and field issues - Changes in the 2023 NEC and what’s coming next No resistance—just grounded knowledge.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul was asked a question about wide spread confusion over the last sentence in 680.26(B)(6)(a) regarding the use of a double insulated water pump motor for pool applications in Article 680 Part II. What do you do with that 8 AWG CU Solid Bonding Jumper when you take it to the pool pump motor and find out it is a special double insulated system motor. Well, we have the answer for you on this episode so enjoy.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

Master The NEC Podcast | Episode 24 | Failure to Achieve Mental Blocks |  In this episode, Paul talks very candid about the issue of failure and the concept of Failure to Achieve that so many up and coming electrical professionals struggle with. You have heard the old saying "Failure is part of success" but thats fine until the failure begins to eat you up inside. Listen as Paul talks about your success.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul was asked a question about torquing and his thoughts on torque values and the changes from calibrated torque tools to now approved method. Paul also answers a question about SER being stripped out for use in raceways.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul was asked a question about tariffs and my thoughts on them and how it will help America become the greatest nation in the world. AGAIN.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul was asked a question about the location allowance of panels in locations such as stairwell areas and about the loads for a service or feeder with regards to EVSE. In fact, this episode may help clear up some confusion on some basic load calculations for those EV Lovers.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visit https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.

In this episode, Paul will announce some new Virginia CE Code Update Seminars coming to Virginia starting in the summer of 2025. These seminars will be “ACTION” packed with NEC Code and Real Works Situations that only Paul can deliver. These will be a MUST ATTEND event that will be located at convenient locations on the east and west of Central Virginia. These events will be a MUST attend and updates will be posted at https://fasttraxsystem.com/events in the coming months.Listen as Paul Abernathy, CEO, and Founder of Electrical Code Academy, Inc., the leading electrical educator in the country, discusses electrical code, electrical trade, and electrical business-related topics to help electricians maximize their knowledge and industry investment.If you are looking to learn more about the National Electrical Code, for electrical exam preparation, or to better your knowledge of the NEC then visits https://fasttraxsystem.com for all the electrical code training you will ever need by the leading electrical educator in the country with the best NEC learning program on the planet.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-paul-national-electrical-code--4971115/support.