Outdoor GFCI Receptacle

[dwang05]

Stated in the 1999 handbook, Article 210-8a section 3, "Receptacles that are not readily accessible and are supplied by a dedicated branch circuit for electric snow-melting or deicing equipment shall be permitted to be installed in accordance with the applicable provisions of Article 426." My questions pertains to the statement 'readily accessible'. Does a built-in outdoor unit considered readily accessible and is it allowed to be an expection to this section?

 

[BAHTAH]

Re: Outdoor GFCI Receptacle

Readily Accessible means you can reach the receptcle without having to climb over, remove some obstacle or use a ladder in order to do so. If the location of your receptacle requires you do any of these, it is not Readily Accessible. A receptacle located under the eve for snow melt protection would not be readily accessible but would require Ground-Fault protection 30ma (GFEP) per 426.28.

 

[kqresq]

Re: Outdoor GFCI Receptacle

As defined in the 1999 NEC Article 100:
Accessible, Readily (Readily Accessible). Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections, without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to climb over or remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders, etc.

I am sure that other who actually live in snow areas will be able to tell you more about this.