Help me cover this monstrosity!

3 years ago

Ok, I know covering an electrical panel is not to code. But we can't afford to move it ($6000)! This is a DIY and we're getting RTA cabinets. The left corner has stairs going down to the basement. Under the window in the corner we're doing 12" deep uppers with butcher block top. Width 24/24/15. We think there is enough room to navigate the corner. Other side of electrical panel is base cabinet 18", sink, DW, 12", stove, peninsula. The window to the right of panel is being shortened for this.
Over the panel, what can be done. Do we do a tall cabinet 12" or 15" depth? Or angle custom base to transition from 24" depth to 12" depth (18" wide for this)? Doing a 24" depth the entire width of the panel world be tight to walk around.
I appreciate any help!

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Comments (12)

Kate
3 years ago
Can you put in a pantry type cabinet over it so you still have a door and easy access.
Amy A
Original Author
3 years ago
It would be from floor to ceiling, either separate upper and lower or a pantry style. If the pantry, would a 15" depth look ok? The transition from 18" base on the right to 12" depth uppers on the left. Like this black line?
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dennisgli
3 years ago
@Kate - Doesn't the electric code require 2.5 feet wide and 6.5 feet high clearance in front of the panel - I'm not sure what you are proposing - that sounds like an awfully big pantry type cabinet?
mcarroll16
3 years ago
I'd probably look for another more attractive hinged cover to go over the box. The front cover could be a chalkboard, artwork, etc. Etsy has a bunch of options. My experience in older homes is that you're going to be opening that box up pretty frequently to reset breakers. You want to keep it accessible for your own sake, not just for code.
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beesneeds
3 years ago
I take it you are doing the entire remodel without any inspections?
Amy A
Original Author
3 years ago
Luckily I haven't needed to reset the breakers in 10 years. I had a long free standing cabinet credenza in front of it before. I need the cabinet space, and leaving a hole would look weird next to cabinets on either side.

Yes, it's not to code to cover with anything but a curtain. And putting a 36" deep cabinet would not work to move around.

Is it that bad to put a pantry in?
Andrea
3 years ago
Could you drywall it in so it is just a column with the panel being flush? Then you could hang something on top of the panel like a bulletin board, chalkboard, or picture.
Amy A
Original Author
3 years ago
I'm up against brick with little room for a flat panel. Could furr the wall out an inch. But changing the panel would be almost as expensive as moving it to the basement completely.
Kate
3 years ago
@Amy if your trying to stay to code then your ont option is move it or leave it
Kate
3 years ago
Pretty sure that outlet on the floor isn't to code but im not an electrician.
ffpalms
3 years ago
I’d just paint them to match your walls when you repaint.
pkpk23
3 years ago
Think a ceiling to floor curtain over entire area in wall color would work well. If you paint, figure out large art that would cover the myriad collection of conduit and outlets next to main box.