openings

[gimpyfac]

We, have in our local code amendments,8 openings on # 14 wire,15 amp breaker and 10 openings on #12 wire, 20 amp breaker.My question is,are switches,lite fixtures, receptacles, and smoke detectors,openings? Is each box in the wall,ceiling,floor, an opening.

 

[lrollo]

Re: openings

I would think an opening would be considered a consuming outlet, such as a recepticle or a light fixture. A switch which is switching an outlet would not count as an opening but what it controls would be an opening. I also am of the opinion a smoke detector is a non-consuming outlet and may be exempted from being counted. Article 100 of the NEC should give you a definition of an outlet.

 

[roger]

Re: openings

We have a definition issue here for sure. If we look at "switches,lite fixtures, receptacles, and smoke detectors" I have never used the term "opening" to describe any one of these.

If these are specifically defined as "openings" in your local amendments, you have a legal description of the intended description and are bound by it.

Is each box in the wall,ceiling,floor, an opening.

They would have to be included in the amendment definition of an opening.

Roger