nec and requirments for furance

[vernbarr]

Where does one find a requirement that a furance must be hard wired and have a switch? Why can't it be cord and plug????

 

[iwire]

Re: nec and requirments for furance

This has come up a few times and IMO comes down to the inspectors own mindset.

I do not think it should be cord and plug connected, but I probably feel that way because in this area it is always hardwired, in some parts of the country it is common to be cord and plug connected.

IMO this code article applies

400.8 Uses Not Permitted.
Unless specifically permitted in 400.7, flexible cords and cables shall not be used for the following:

(1)As a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure

I would ask for what reason does it need to be cord and plug connected?

Most times you are allowed to use a cord it is for a specific reason, frequent interchange, prevention of vibration etc.

 

[big john]

Re: nec and requirments for furance

If this is an electric heater, concerning the switch:

424.1
...For purposes of this article, heating equipment shall include heating cable, unit heaters, boilers, central systems, or other approved fixed electric space-heating equipment.

424.19
Means shall be provided to disconnect the heater, motor controller(s), and supplementary overcurrent device(s) of all fixed electric space-heating equipment from all ungrounded conductors....

Depending on how you end up wiring this thing also see 422.31 Disconnection of Permanently Connected Appliances.
And 422.33 Disconnect of Cord-and-Plug Connected Appliances.

For gas or oil fueled heaters, the disconnect may also be required by other NFPA codes that I'm not familiar with.

-John

[ September 24, 2003, 08:20 PM: Message edited by: big john ]