Show windows - NEC, enforcement, application

[George Stolz]

I am working in a big building. That's about all I can call it. It's big. Not real big, but big. I've learned how to use (and worship) a scissor lift there.

Anyway, in this building are four large windows, about 12' high and 12' wide. We are installing some sort of recessed downlight at the top of each of the windows, to shine onto product displays that will be visible from the U.S. Highway.

There are no receptacles called out specifically for these windows on the prints. However, as I recently learned...

210.62 Show Windows. At least one receptacle outlet shall be installed directly above a show window for each 3.7 linear m (12 linear ft) or major fraction thereof of show window area measured horizontally at its maximum width.

So, I was wondering if most inspectors would allow a lighting outlet instead of the required receptacle outlet over the windows?

(My other question was going to be where this receptacle is normally put and what exactly is normally plugged into it, but I guess half that question was answered in re-reading the section.)

Would this be something that should be caught in the bidding process, or do most commercial EC's charge for the addition?

 

[infinity]

The first question that comes to mind is are they regular windows or show windows? Show windows would require the receptacle regardless of the lighting within them. Regular windows require nothing.

 

[celtic]

So, I was wondering if most inspectors would allow a lighting outlet instead of the required receptacle outlet over the windows?

Every commercial job I have done has required the recept.

The tenants of these commercial spaces usually wind up with some sort of "moving" holiday display.

Would this be something that should be caught in the bidding process, or do most commercial EC's charge for the addition?

Extra$

 

[infinity]

I agree with Celtic that this should be an extra. Unless of course it's buried in the specifications that the EC is responsible for providing all code required outlets.

 

[celtic]

I think you will always find language in a contract from a GC/Builder that includes language to the effect that " all required by NEC is EC's problem" ....as an EC you should have language in your contract that stipulates that " EC is responsible only for items on drawings".

 

[iwire]

The first question that comes to mind is are they regular windows or show windows? Show windows would require the receptacle regardless of the lighting within them. Regular windows require nothing.

Not sure I agree here.

What is a regular window?

Check the definition on Article 100

Any window, designed or used for the display of goods or adverising....

A small window used to display a sign would qualify.

Here the inspectors expect the receptacles even if I also provide track lighting in the entire window.

 

[infinity]

Not sure I agree here.

What is a regular window?

Check the definition on Article 100

Any window, designed or used for the display of goods or adverising....

A small window used to display a sign would qualify.

Here the inspectors expect the receptacles even if I also provide track lighting in the entire window.

The windows in an office building would be regular windows. The words or used could come after the fact. I don't see windows in office building lobbies with a receptacle for every 12' of window.

 

[George Stolz]

Thanks for the replies.

So, from the responses, it seems like a given that this will probably be called at inspection.

My other question remains: what is generally plugged into this receptacle?

IMO, looking at the definition and the window and overhearing it's intended use, it is a show window in my mind.

 

[celtic]

My other question remains: what is generally plugged into this receptacle?

The tenants of these commercial spaces usually wind up with some sort of "moving" holiday display.

Can you hear me now? (I needed some filler )

 

[George Stolz]

Sorry, Celtic, I didn't realize that was the answer I was looking for!

At the risk of exposing my ignorance, could you explain that? I don't get it.

 

[celtic]

I don't get it.

Something like this:

(That's Macy's on Herald Square in NYC)

Others might have a display for Halloween, Back-to-School, etc...
Others may just have an "OPEN" neon sign...

You get it now?

 

[George Stolz]

Why does it have to be above the window?

 

[celtic]

I can't really answer the "Why above?"...I wasn't on the CMP

The best I can give you is the commentary from the NECH:

" To discourage floor receptacles and unsightly extension cords likely to cause physical injury, receptacles must be installed directly above a show window, .."

 

[George Stolz]

Then why does 210.52 require the wall space receptacles to be 5.5' or lower?

 

[celtic]

Then why does 210.52 require the wall space receptacles to be 5.5' or lower?

When is the last time someone lived in a place that had a display window?

210.52 is dwelling units

 

[George Stolz]

I'm saying, if cords down low result in floor outlets and dangerous trip hazards...

 

[celtic]

I'm saying, if cords down low result in floor outlets and dangerous trip hazards...

In a commercial enviroment they can be - customers being customers, they are shopping - not watching out for trip hazards.

Typically, the floor outlets in a store are for cleaning personal, temporary display units, free standing display units (where aesthetics come into play), etc.

There is difference in the requirements and logics behind 210.52 and 210.63 (and also 210.8 (A) and 210.8(B) )

 

[George Stolz]

Good point.

 

[celtic]

Good point.

Who was it that said:
The code doesn't mean what you think it says


Someone will be along to correct me

 

[iwire]

I don't see windows in office building lobbies with a receptacle for every 12' of window.

Trevor I am not being a wise guy but what does that mean?

Does that mean they are not required or does that mean it's not being enforced?

Given the definition of show windows IMO it is just a lack of enforcement.

Remember the definition starts with Any window