Wiring colours?

[thaibeachlovers]

I thought LIVE was black and neutral grey in Thailand, but the breaker box I just bought has a BLACK wire to the neutral bar.

While we are on the subject of wiring, why does the wiring diagram of a previous breaker box I bought have the neutral bar connected to the earth bar? Confusing!

Thanks for replies.

[Crossy]

1. Most incoming wiring is black simply to minimise cost, you are correct that the code is Black - L, White - N, Green - E. If you are worried put a bit of white tape or white heatshrink over the last inch or so of the wire, quite acceptable.

2. Connecting the incoming neutral via the ground bar is the Thai method of implementing MEN. If it's a new installation the MEA / PEA inspector will be looking for this connection.

[thaibeachlovers]

Thank you.

[JaiLai]

1. Most incoming wiring is black simply to minimise cost, you are correct that the code is Black - L, White - N, Green - E. If you are worried put a bit of white tape or white heatshrink over the last inch or so of the wire, quite acceptable.

2. Connecting the incoming neutral via the ground bar is the Thai method of implementing MEN. If it's a new installation the MEA / PEA inspector will be looking for this connection.

Why does an inspector come, I thought as long as the meter is turning and the bills are getting paid they did n't card about condition of electrics?

I'm not talking about a moo baan.

Or is the inspection for commercial buildings?

[Crossy]

Why does an inspector come, I thought as long as the meter is turning and the bills are getting paid they did n't card about condition of electrics?

I'm not talking about a moo baan.

Or is the inspection for commercial buildings?

If you are a new construction you initially get a temporary construction supply, power is billed at about 8 Baht a unit on this supply.

Once you have your blue book (i.e. a proper address) you can apply for a permanent supply. MEA / PEA will inspect your installation to ensure it meets (minimal) safety requirements before they will change the meter to permanent and lower charges.

The Thai (actually the same as the US NEC) MEN implementation is one of the things they look for.

[JaiLai]

Thanks for the info.

I bought land, had a meter already, have all sorts of ropey wiring going in for the construction of house, man comes from PEA on motorbike once a month or thereabouts and pay him tgere and then.

Inspection / standards have never been mentioned.

I guess maybe in rural Thailand no issues. Also no architects drawings or building permits, not concerned about it.

[Crossy]

Do a quick calculation of the price per unit from your last bill, if it's about 4 Baht no issues, if it's nearer 8 Baht you have a temporary supply and will need an inspection (or tea money) to get a permanent supply.

[JaiLai]

Worked out at 4.41 baht per unit so that sounds about right.

Thanks for the info.