Door Bell Transformer

[phantomco]

We were recently asked a question as to the safety of a Door Bell Transformer located in the unfinished basement of a home. In this case, small children have access to the area and the question is regarding shock hazard.
Our initial thought is that it is a potential hazard, but we're having trouble justifying it based on the code.
Any ideas?

 

[hbiss]

Re: Door Bell Transformer

I guess this really depends on the circumstances. The LV from the transformer should be no hazard but if it is located within reach it could be torn from the box or panel exposing the line voltage leads. This assumes that it is one of the newer types that clamp into a KO.

I would say also that an unfinished basement can present all kinds of other hazards to small childen and this bell transformer is probably the least of them.

 

[jimwalker]

Re: Door Bell Transformer

Most of the new ones i see are provided with a LN,but even the ones with the clamp if installed right will not be pulled off easily.There are other choices like mounting it to a box on the ceiling.Often we will mount a plastic box just above the panel (out of reach),on trim use handy box cover with 1/2 KO.Looks neat and out of harms way.