The Windy City's Shocking Secret: Can You REALLY Use Romex in Chicago?
Ah, Chicago. City of Broad Shoulders, Deep Dish Dreams, and... an aversion to Romex? That's right, folks. Unlike most of the country, the Windy City has a bit of a love-hate relationship with this common electrical cable.
But why the cold shoulder, Chicago?
There are whispers of safety concerns, murmurs of a bygone era's building codes clinging on for dear life. Some folks say it's a conspiracy by the Big EMT Lobby (whoever those guys are). The truth, as always, is probably a little less exciting (and way less Illuminati).
So, can you use Romex in Chicago? Buckle up, because it's a bit of a doozy.
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The No-Go Zone: Generally speaking, if you're planning on any new electrical work within the city limits of Chicago, forget about Romex. The Chicago Electrical Code, stricter than your grandma on laundry day, demands conduit for most in-wall applications. Think of it as electrical wires getting the royal treatment, all dressed up in metal suits of armor.
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The Maybe Pile: There are a few exceptions, but they're about as common as finding a deep dish pizza that isn't life-changing. We're talking about temporary wiring or existing installations that meet grandpa-approved code (seriously, that code is old).
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The Great Escape (to the Suburbs): Now, here's where things get interesting. Step outside the city limits, and suddenly, Romex is back on the menu. Those charming suburbs? They're living the Romex dream, baby!
So, what's a DIY enthusiast to do?
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Don't be a Shocker (Safety First!): This whole Romex business isn't just about the city flexing its regulatory muscles. There are genuine safety concerns when it comes to electrical work. If you're unsure, call a licensed electrician. They'll know the code better than you know your favorite deep dish spot (and that's saying something).
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Embrace the Conduit Life: Sure, it might not be as familiar as Romex, but working with conduit isn't brain surgery. There are plenty of resources online and, of course, your friendly neighborhood electrician to help you navigate the world of metal tubes.
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Plan Your Escape (Maybe): If your heart is set on Romex and you're not exactly itching for that condo life, well, the suburbs are always an option. Just be prepared for a slightly longer commute (but hey, more deep dish options!).
The bottom line? Chicago's got a thing for conduit. Embrace it, or head for the suburbs. Just remember, when it comes to electrical work, safety should never be left on "read."
