Conflict between 210.8(B)(3) and manufacturer's instruction

[LarryFine]

Just curious of your opinions about the possible conflict between ('02 NEC) 210.8(B)(3) and a commercial refrigerator's recommendation (I'll have to read and report the exact sentence tomorrow) that it not be powered via a GFCI-protected receptacle.

Is there an answer besides "in that case, don't use that refrigerator"?

 

[George Stolz]

Remove the cord and hardwire it.

I'd say that's your second-best option, the first being the one you mentioned.

 

[iwire]

IMO removing the cord is generally not an option. You would be firmly into listing issues. It would be up to the AHJ to determine if that was acceptable.

The manufacturers do not write code, if the NEC requires a GFCI in that location you must provide it.

IMO you have options.

1) Get a different refrigerator

2) Ignore the manufacturers instructions.

I did not say they would be good options.

 

[dlhoule]

Is that a new refrigerator or a used one? Most of the newer ones will run just fine on a GFCI.

 

[Pierre C Belarge]

The ROP for the 2008 NEC has a substantiation stating that manufacturers have provided information stating that appliances manufactured recently will be able to be supplied by a GFCI protected branch circuit or receptacle without any conflict.

I would say if you have a situation with this issue, the kitchen owner has some decisions to make.