Electric Fireplace

M

Matt E

Member
Location
North Carolina
Occupation
Electrician
Good afternoon, and Happy New Year.

I am located in North Carolina, which is currently enforcing the 2017 edition of the NEC. While inspecting a newly constructed one-family dwelling (less than one year old), I observed an electric fireplace supplied by a branch circuit protected by a 15-ampere overcurrent protective device and wired with 14 AWG NM cable. The branch-circuit conductors at the appliance terminal block exhibited visible insulation damage consistent with overheating.

Appliance nameplate information:
  • Model: SF-SC55-BK
  • Voltage: 120 V AC
  • Frequency: 60 Hz
  • Rated current: 12.5 A
  • Rated power: 1500 W
My question is whether this appliance should be treated as a continuous load as defined in Article 100, thereby requiring conductor and overcurrent device sizing at 125 percent in accordance with 210.19(A)(1) and 210.20(A), or whether a 15-ampere branch circuit with 14 AWG conductors is permitted based solely on the nameplate rating and intended operation.

I am particularly interested in any applicable guidance from Article 422, 110.3(B) regarding manufacturer’s instructions, and whether conductor damage at the terminal block would more appropriately indicate a termination issue under 110.14(D) rather than a load-sizing issue.


Thank you in advance for any code-based insight or references.


 
Electric heat should be figured at 125%, so imo, a 15 amp cir. is not quite compliant. I don't believe that is where the problem lies. I with Don-- probably a loose connection either by the electrician or the manufacturer.
 
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