receptacle in fireplace

[ddubbs103]

Went to a job today to hang tv on wall add outlet etc with an av guy. The only source of power I could get to was inside the fireplace where they installed agas fireplace insert with 2 flex vents coming out. I was asked if the prior install was correct which was floating romex to 4 inch square with duplex rec and mulberry cover behind insert in chimney attached to brick, I wasnt sure what code issue might be but seemed wrong to put receptacle in old fireplace. I would need to penetrate the brick above fireplace mantel to get the power from below, Im not sure if thats a code violation. Since they have it vented in flex piping up chimney I dont think it would matter to use old chimney as chase for wires and to drill hole into to get wire on wall for tv. This firplace has no blower just a plug in controller, sorry for long one any thoughts or ideas would be appreciated thanks.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

If the fireplace insert can be moved out and the recep. accessible then there should be no problem.

My understanding is that is not much heat generated on the back side of the insert so I can only guess that the romex is fine back there. I would get some info from the manufacturer but I am pretty certain it will not be an issue.

 

[Hendrix]

dosen't sound like a problem to me.

 

[jamesoftn]

It appears to access the existing rec. you have to remove the fireplace. In turn you will need to disconnect the gas, vent, ect. This does not seem to meet the requirements of accessible ( not closed in by the structure or finish ). So I feel the rec. is in violation and the intended connection will also be incorrect.

 

[pfalcon]

You may need to check housing codes on fireplaces. Penetrating the brick on a chimney that could be reverted to its old use may be a violation. It may not be an electrical violation but could still be a fireplace violation.