appliance cord feeding water heater

[difowler1]

I am almost positive I read where you can not use an appliance cord and plug as a disconnect on a water heater. anyone know the code reference?

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Other than manufacturers instruction I don't know of any, but IMO. it is a violation of 400.8. Also art. 422.16 permits flex cord for certain applians and a water heater is not listed.

 

[raider1]

I agree with Dennis,

For a water heater to be cord and plug connect it must meet the requirements of 400.7(A)(8) which require the appliance to be intended and identified for cord and plug connection.

Chris

 

[JDB3]

Until recently, cord & plug was the way I connected them (with no problems). I can understand that it is not listed to do it that way, but other than not being listed, what would the problem be?

 

[raider1]

Until recently, cord & plug was the way I connected them (with no problems). I can understand that it is not listed to do it that way, but other than not being listed, what would the problem be?

Flexible cord is built with a rubber covering and rubber insulation on the conductors that will break down in time and could cause a fire or shock hazard. This is the reason that flexible cord is not considered a wiring method but instead equipment.

Chris

 

[jumper]

I believe that no electric WH over 5 gallons is listed for cord connection.