Automation panel ventilation

[kurtmccaslin]

I talked with my builder this afternoon and he asked me about all of those holes in the back of my automation panels.   He is worried that they are needed for ventilation, and he is planning to install sprayfoam behind them, which will plug all of the holes.  
 
I assume that the holes are more for installing circuit boards without having to drill and the foam is not a problem, but I thought I would throw it out to this community.
 
Has anybody had problems installing spray foam behind an automation panel?  (if it makes a difference, my walls are 2x6 framed so I will have about 2 inches of foam behind the panels.)

 

[gatchel]

The holes are usually for using the optional devices that can be installed in the can using the little black expandable pins.
 
I would get a piece of solid pink foam board to use behind the panel if it can be slid in to place from the top or bottom. This will keep the wet spray foam from leaking in to the HA can.
 
Other wise, put some plastic of covering behind the can that can easily be penetrated in the future. This will stop the spray foam from coming in and oozing all over your HA can.

 

[gatchel]

By the way, If you think you'll be close to filling the can and you are still in construction, install 2. You will thank me later.

 

[kurtmccaslin]

I am installing 3! B)
 
Thanks for the advice!

 

[sda]

FWIW, foam board is flammable, and I think most spray foam insulation is also.  You're not supposed to leave it exposed.  Not that its likely to happen, but if something goes south in your can and starts burning, it could spread to the foam and your new house will be ashes.  Wouldn't want any roasted dillo's, would we?  Easy fix is to put a layer of sheetrock between the box and the insulation.
 

Fire Protection:
Foam insulation is relatively hard to ignite but when ignited, it burns readily and emits a dense, black, smoke containing many toxic gases. The combustion characteristics of foam insulation products vary with the combustion temperatures, chemical formulation, and available air.
Because of the dangers described above, foams used for construction require a covering as a fire barrier. One half-inch thick (1.27 cm) gypsum wallboard is one of the most common fire barriers. Some building codes, however, do not require an additional fire barrier for certain metal-faced laminated foam products. Check with your local building code/fire officials, and insurers for specific information on what is permitted in your area.

From Question about exposed styrofoam insulation. - InterNACHI Inspection Forum http://www.nachi.org/forum/f16/question-exposed-styrofoam-insulation-17365/#ixzz2tsIoeX8x