Low to Moderate. While some aspects of rack mounting and cable routing can be DIY, all electrical work, including new circuits or wiring, must comply with the 2023 NEC and typically requires a permit and inspection by your local municipality. Active cooling systems may also necessitate professional installation.
Installation involves significant electrical considerations, potential modifications to existing building structure for ventilation, and ensuring adequate thermal management, all requiring adherence to state and county building and electrical codes.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Permitting and General Requirements
3 Rules
Permit Application
Consult your local municipality for specific permit requirements prior to commencing any electrical or structural work related to the installation of a network rack or cooling system.
Compliance
All work shall comply with the currently adopted 2024 International Residential Code (IRC), 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), and the Illinois Plumbing Code.
Inspections
Work requiring permits must be inspected by the local building department at appropriate stages.
Electrical System Requirements
6 Rules
Branch Circuit Requirements
Dedicated 120-volt, 15- or 20-ampere branch circuits shall be provided for equipment requiring significant power (e.g., active cooling, UPS, PoE switches). All circuits must comply with proper overcurrent protection and conductor sizing. NEC 210.20, NEC 210.21
Receptacles
Receptacles shall be of the grounding type and properly installed in accordance with NEC 406.4.
Grounding and Bonding
All electrical equipment enclosures, raceways, cable trays, and non-current-carrying metal parts shall be properly grounded and bonded in accordance with NEC Article 250.
Wiring Methods
Wiring shall be installed in accordance with NEC Chapter 3, suitable for the environment and protected from physical damage. NEC Article 300.
Clearances and Access
Sufficient working space and clear access shall be maintained around electrical equipment for safe operation and maintenance. NEC 110.26.
Firestopping
Penetrations through fire-resistance-rated walls, floors, or ceilings for electrical wiring shall be properly firestopped. NEC 300.21, IRC R302.4.
Physical Installation and Structural Integrity
3 Rules
Rack Support and Stability
Racks and cabinets shall be securely fastened to structural elements capable of supporting the full weight of the equipment. IRC R502.2, R602.10.
Location and Clearance
Racks shall be located to allow adequate airflow for cooling and access for maintenance, without impeding egress or required clearances for other building systems. IRC R302.2, R311.1.
Concealed Spaces
Where the rack enclosure or associated ductwork penetrates concealed spaces, fireblocking shall be provided. IRC R302.11.
Thermal Management and Cooling
4 Rules
Ventilation Requirements
Enclosed spaces housing network equipment shall be adequately ventilated to prevent excessive heat buildup. Mechanical ventilation systems, if employed, must comply with IRC Chapter 15.
Condensate Drainage (for AC units)
If active cooling systems (e.g., mini-split AC units) are installed, condensate drains shall be properly trapped and discharged to an approved receptor in accordance with the Illinois Plumbing Code, Section 890.1350.
Ductwork
Any ductwork installed for cooling purposes shall comply with IRC Chapter 16 and be properly insulated where it passes through unconditioned spaces. IRC R1601.1.
Electrical Supply for Cooling
Dedicated electrical circuits for active cooling units shall be installed according to NEC Article 440 (Air-Conditioning and Refrigerating Equipment).
Fire Safety and Separation
2 Rules
Combustible Materials
Storage of combustible materials near network racks and electrical equipment is prohibited. NEC 110.26(A).
Fire-Resistance-Rated Construction
If the network rack is located within a dedicated closet or room requiring a fire-resistance rating (e.g., attached garage), construction must comply with IRC R302 requirements.
Low-Voltage and Communication Cabling
3 Rules
Cable Type and Routing
Communications cables shall comply with NEC Article 800 and be routed to prevent physical damage. Plenum-rated cable (CMP) or Riser-rated cable (CMR) shall be used as appropriate for concealed spaces. NEC 800.179.
Separation from Power Wiring
Communications cables shall be separated from power wiring to prevent induction and comply with NEC 800.133(A).
Cable Support
Cables shall be properly supported and secured, avoiding excessive tension or tight bends that could damage conductors. NEC 800.24.
