Flexible cords for forced air units. Article 422.16 Flexible Cords

[Madera Wil]

I'm read in Article 422.16 Flexible Cords about all the different types of appliances that are permitted to be connected with flexible cords. It does not mention a forced air units.
Someone told me that they are required to be connected with a disconnect and the unit hard wired.
Is this correct? Is there a reference in the code for this?

Thanks for your help.
Mad Wil

 

[infinity]

Does the unit come with a cord and plug from the manufacturer?

 

[Madera Wil]

No. They usually don't. For years they haven't. The cord was provided by the electricial.

 

[augie47]

My memory plays tricks but if I recall correctly UL does not list any AHUs for cord & plug connections.

 

[mtnelect]

This might help to explain.

 

[infinity]

My memory plays tricks but if I recall correctly UL does not list any AHUs for cord & plug connections.

I didn't think that any equipment of this type was listed for a cord and plug connection which is why it comes with a KO for the cable or raceway entry and not a cord and plug. In some parts of the country they're wired with flexible cords every day which is a violation,

 

[suemarkp]

One solution I've heard of, depending on what is trying to be done, is to hard wire the furnace to a single circuit transfer switch which has a 5-15 inlet. This lets the furnace run on utility power normally, but you move the switch to inlet/gen, and can power it via cord and plug.

https://www.amazon.com/Reliance-Controls-TF151W-Transfer-Generators/dp/B000HRWG8U

 

[LarryFine]

Or make one with an inlet and a 3-way switch, which could replace (or be) the disconnect switch.